Reading: Dealing With Self-Conflict

In ministry, addressing self-conflict is a crucial aspect of spiritual guidance, as many individuals struggle with internal dilemmas that mirror those experienced by biblical figures. Here are some common self-conflicts and ways ministers can help individuals navigate these challenges, illustrated through biblical narratives:

1. Struggle with Sin (Romans 7:15-25)

• Common Conflict: Battling between the desire to do good and the propensity to do otherwise.
• Ministry Approach: Encourage confession and accountability within a supportive community. Reinforce the concept of grace and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit.
• Bible Verse: "For I do not do the good I want to do, but the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing."

2. Indecision in Faith (1 Kings 18:21)

• Common Conflict: Oscillating between different beliefs or commitments.
• Ministry Approach: Facilitate discussions that reinforce the foundations of Christian faith, helping individuals to make informed, steadfast decisions.
• Bible Verse: "Elijah went before the people and said, 'How long will you waver between two opinions? If the Lord is God, follow him; but if Baal is God, follow him.' But the people said nothing."

3. Fear and Doubt (Matthew 14:28-31)

• Common Conflict: Initial faith or confidence that falters in the face of trials.
• Ministry Approach: Offer teachings on trust and faith in God’s power and presence, especially during times of fear and uncertainty.
• Bible Verse: "But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, 'Lord, save me!'"

4. Despair and Hopelessness (Psalm 42:5)

• Common Conflict: Feeling overwhelmed by circumstances or inner turmoil.
• Ministry Approach: Provide counsel that focuses on hope and the steadfast love of God, encouraging a perspective shift toward God’s enduring promises.
• Bible Verse: "Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation."

5. Reluctance and Inadequacy (Exodus 4:10-13)

• Common Conflict: Feeling inadequate for a task or calling.
• Ministry Approach: Affirm God’s equipping power and the individual's unique abilities as created by God. Encourage stepping out in faith with God’s strength.
• Bible Verse: "Moses said to the Lord, 'Pardon your servant, Lord. I have never been eloquent.'"

6. Testing God’s Promises (Judges 6:36-40)

• Common Conflict: Seeking assurance of God’s promises when in doubt.
• Ministry Approach: Discuss the nature of faith and reliance on God’s word, encouraging trust without continual signs.
• Bible Verse: "Gideon said to God, 'If you will save Israel by my hand as you have promised—look, I will place a wool fleece.'"

7. Running from God’s Call (Jonah 1:3)

• Common Conflict: Avoiding God’s calling due to fear, rebellion, or misunderstanding.
• Ministry Approach: Address the reasons for running and the ultimate peace and joy found in embracing God’s will, using counseling and scriptural study.
• Bible Verse: "But Jonah ran away from the Lord and headed for Tarshish."

8. Faltering Faith (Mark 9:24)

• Common Conflict: Believing in God while simultaneously doubting His power or will.
• Ministry Approach: Encourage an honest faith journey, where doubts are addressed openly and scripturally.
• Bible Verse: "Immediately the boy’s father exclaimed, 'I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!'"

9. Wrestling with God’s Ways (Job 10:1-3)

• Common Conflict: Questioning God’s justice or goodness during suffering.
• Ministry Approach: Offer pastoral care that validates feelings but also guides toward a trust in God’s ultimate sovereignty and goodness.
• Bible Verse: "I will say to God: Do not condemn me, but tell me what charges you have against me."

In ministry, recognizing these patterns of self-conflict and effectively addressing them through biblical wisdom and compassionate pastoral care can help individuals find resolution and peace in their spiritual journeys.