Resolving Internal Conflicts
Leading Through Internal Conflict: Lessons from Nehemiah
Just as a plane crash survivor faces both external threats from harsh conditions and internal threats from injuries, churches face similar dual challenges. Nehemiah chapter 5 provides valuable insights into how godly leaders can address internal conflicts while staying focused on God’s mission.
What Were the Internal Conflicts in Nehemiah’s Time?
The people of Jerusalem faced three main issues:
- Wage earners couldn’t afford food during a famine
- Landowners were mortgaging property to buy grain
- Borrowers were taking loans to pay government taxes
The wealthy Jewish leaders were taking advantage of their struggling brothers by charging interest, seizing property, and even taking children as debt servants – all practices explicitly forbidden by Scripture.
How Should Leaders Address Internal Conflicts?
Listen carefully to identify the problem
- Take time to understand complaints and concerns
- Don’t ignore or avoid issues
Take time to consider a plan
- Avoid hasty reactions
- Think through consequences
- Develop a thoughtful approach
Confront those who are sinning
- Address issues directly
- Call out wrong behavior
- Have difficult conversations when needed
Call for repentance and obedience
- Point people to God’s truth
- Show steps toward restoration
- Guide people back to right relationship
Hold people accountable
- Follow up on commitments
- Involve others when needed
- Set clear expectations and timelines
Lead by example
- Demonstrate integrity
- Show the way forward
- Live out what you teach
What Makes a Leader Effective in Handling Conflict?
Effective leaders:
- Listen before acting
- Think carefully about solutions
- Confront problems courageously
- Point people to Scripture
- Follow through with accountability
- Trust God with results
Life Application
Take time this week to examine:
- Are your words or actions causing division in your church community?
- What steps can you take to be part of the solution rather than the problem?
- How can you better support unity in your church?
Challenge: Identify one specific way you may be contributing to discord and commit to changing that behavior this week. Remember that small issues left unaddressed can grow into major problems that threaten unity and mission.
Ask yourself:
- Am I avoiding any difficult conversations that need to happen?
- Have I been part of gossip or division?
- What can I do to promote unity in my church?