From Companion to Competitor

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From Companion to Competitor

Beef: Week 2

May 5, 2024 • Pastor Jerome Gay Jr. • 1 Samuel 18:1–19

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We dive into the depths of Scripture in a familiar encounter between Saul and David. We learned how comparison contributes to ongoing conflict in our lives.

Here are a few key takeaways to meditate on this week:

- Roots of Conflict is Internal: We explored James 4 to understand that conflicts often arise from pride and self-centeredness. Our internal processing significantly influences our external responses to such situations.

- We Need to be LOVER's: A transformative approach to handling conflict that includes Leading with restoration, Overlooking some offenses, Viewing others as God’s creations, giving people our Ear while listening to understand rather than just to respond and Resisting vengeance.

- Overcoming Comparison: By examining the relationship between David and Saul, we learned the importance of resisting comparison and embracing the unique purpose and timing God has for each of us. Embrace your calling and don't compare your calling to that of others.

- Choosing Restoration Over Retaliation: David's example taught us the power of mercy and purpose, even when faced with hostility, as we saw in his restraint with Saul.

Cain: A Tale of Anger and Conflict

May 26, 2024 • KO Grissett • Ephesians 4:31–32, Genesis 4:3–7, Ephesians 4:26–27

As we seek to respond well to situations that anger us, KO Grissett provides some helpful points from the example of Cain and Abel: - Our Emotions are meant to be gifts. - Angers calls us to Action. - Always Pause with God for Reflection before Responding in Anger

From Fury to Faith

May 19, 2024 • Pastor Jerome Gay Jr. • Psalm 55:12–23

Here are a few takeaways to meditate on this week: - Direct your pain to God in prayer, naming your emotions and acknowledging the impact of hurtful words or actions that you've experienced. - Endure the pain by seeking God's strength and direction, rather than trying to escape or retreat from the situation. - Process your pain purposefully by voicing your feelings to God, while trusting in His justice and sovereignty.

From Separation to Restoration

May 12, 2024 • Pastor Jerome Gay Jr. • Acts 15:36–41

Here are some key takeaways from our time together: - Conflict as an Opportunity for Growth: We discussed how separation in relationships, though difficult, can lead to personal and communal growth if handled with godly wisdom. - Biblical Guidance for Healthy Separation: We examined scenarios that may necessitate a temporary separation in relationships, stressing that the ultimate goal is always reconciliation. - Restorative Separation: Our conversation included practical steps such as contrition, contemplation, community, communication, and connection which must any period of separation to ensure it remains restorative. - The Role of Community: We were reminded of the importance of the community's role in both the calling and resolution of conflicts within the church. - The Power of Reconciliation: Highlighted by the eventual reunion of Paul and Mark, we celebrated the hope that shines through when estranged relationships are mended through faith.