Family conflict has been around since there have been families. Sibling rivalry started when there were first siblings. Looking through the chapters of Genesis, you can't get very far in your reading before you encounter a family squabble of some sort. Jealousy, deception, manipulation, hatred, these early chapters of the Bible make some of the soap operas look tame.
Not all the of the family conflicts end positively. But many of them are resolved. I've noticed that those who are open to God's intervention or principles are able to find a way to dissolve the tension and find middle ground. Not always a lot of apologies, but somehow peace is attained and maintained.
Communication, boundaries and respect for God all seem to be components in resolving family conflicts. Concession and a desire for resolution also seems to play a big part. Even when family members don't trust each other, they are ways to settle disputes, draw lines and live by them. And interestingly enough, they did it without a family counselor. The only arbiter seemed to be their faith in God and their family heritage in Him.
Family conflict appears to be inevitable. Unresolved conflict appears to be dangerous and deadly. These family members here in the early to mid chapters of Genesis didn't want to lose favor with God and thus His promise. They found ways to work it out, get along, offer grace and support. I'm sure not everything was always smooth, after all they were still human. But peace remained between them because they made it work.
God, I'm not always the easiest person to get along with in daily life. I have a strong will. I'm selfish. I find myself in arguments with my family from time to time about all sorts of stuff, most of which isn't really all that significant. Help me look to you for wisdom, guidance, and resolution. Strengthen my relationships with your presence.
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