GIF Avoiding Conflict at Work

“A fool shows his annoyance at once, but a prudent man overlooks an insult.”
(Proverbs 12:16 NIV)

Avoiding Conflict at Work
by Chuck Bentley

One of the most important job skills you can have is being able to get along with others. If you don’t develop this skill, you’re headed for a long, difficult journey in the workplace.

Being easily agitated, critical, and a perfectionist can make you undesirable to be around. This could result in going through jobs fairly quickly. And, if you’re an employer, you may have trouble keeping employees.

Displaying this type of character results in loss for you and suffering for others. I’m reminded of the story of Abigail and Nabal, found in 1 Samuel 25. The Bible describes Abigail as “an intelligent and beautiful woman,” but Nabal was “surly and mean in his dealings” (1 Samuel 25:3 NIV). Nabal insulted and refused to help David, Israel’s future king, even though David and his men had faithfully guarded Nabal’s flocks. Abigail did what was right and provided the assistance David had requested.

Shortly after this incident, “the LORD struck Nabal and he died” (1 Samuel 25:38 NIV).  As for Abigail, she became David’s wife.

Nabal could have helped David and enjoyed the satisfaction of knowing he had assisted Israel’s future king. He could have lived and enjoyed the benefits of his wise and beautiful wife. But his attitude caused him to miss these things, and much more.

Overlook offenses and get along with others. If you become angry, don’t lose it altogether, because you also could lose your job, your employees, or your relationships with family and friends.

“A fool gives full vent to his anger, but a wise man keeps himself under control” (Proverbs 29:11 NIV).

Daily Scripture Reading:
Psalms 4, 12, 20, 25, 32, 38