Trusting God in Conflict: A Christ-Centered Approach to Difficult Decisions
In life, we often encounter situations where our sense of justice conflicts with our call to live in Christ's peace. These moments can be deeply challenging, especially when we must choose between standing up for what seems right or entrusting the matter to God’s capable hands. I recently faced such a dilemma after purchasing a used car remotely. When the vehicle arrived from an out-of-state dealership, it had sustained shipping damage, harbored undisclosed previous damage that had been poorly repaired, and had several mechanical issues—all despite the dealership’s assurances of its condition. Although the dealership eventually agreed to repair the shipping damage and address the faulty parts, I strongly suspect they neglected to properly correct the preexisting damage. Now, I’m left with a decision: pursue legal action or accept the car as it is and move forward.
As I reflect on how to respond, I am reminded that our lives are not our own—they are Christ’s. The exchanged life means surrendering not only our hearts but also our decisions to Him. In moments like these, the flesh cries out for justice, but the Spirit invites us to trust. Let’s explore how a Christ-centered, grace-oriented perspective shapes our response to difficult situations.
1. Surrender the Desire for Control
Our natural instinct is to take control, especially when we feel wronged. Yet, Scripture reminds us that control belongs to God alone. Romans 12:19 encourages, “Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: 'It is mine to avenge; I will repay,' says the Lord.” This doesn’t mean we become passive but rather that we release our grip and trust God’s justice over our own.
In this situation, while pursuing legal action may seem justified, I must ask whether it aligns with Christ living His life through me. Is this a battle worth engaging, or is the Spirit calling me to release it into His hands?
2. Evaluate the Cost of Action vs. Peace
Philippians 4:6-7 calls us to let go of anxiety and present our requests to God, promising that His peace will guard our hearts and minds. Lawsuits, arguments, and conflict often rob us of peace and entangle us in worldly concerns. Would pursuing legal action bring peace, or would it entangle me further in frustration?
Sometimes the better part of wisdom is to quietly accept an imperfect outcome, trusting that God works all things for good (Romans 8:28). My energy may be better spent enjoying the car as it is and focusing on how God wants me to use it for His glory rather than seeking perfect justice.
3. Consider the Witness of Grace
Our actions speak loudly about the One we serve. Colossians 3:17 reminds us, “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” How I respond reflects Christ to others—including the dealership.
Grace doesn’t ignore wrongdoing, but it prioritizes the witness of Christ over personal vindication. Perhaps the dealership expects retaliation, but what if I respond with unexpected grace? That response could have a far greater impact than any legal action.
4. Trust God’s Provision and Protection
If the car still has flaws, I can trust that God allowed this for a reason. Perhaps it will open doors for conversations or reveal how He provides beyond my expectations. Psalm 23:1 assures us, "The Lord is my shepherd; I lack nothing."
God's provision is not always material perfection but often spiritual growth. By accepting the car as it is, I may discover new ways God wants to use it—or this experience—for His glory.
5. Release and Rest in Christ
Ultimately, the exchanged life calls us to rest in Christ's sufficiency. Hebrews 4:10 reminds us, “For anyone who enters God’s rest also rests from their works, just as God did from his.” I don’t need to labor for justice when God is my defender.
By surrendering this situation, I can rest in knowing God sees every detail and is working behind the scenes. My role is not to strive but to trust.
A Final Reflection
If you find yourself in a similar place—weighing whether to fight for what you believe is right or to let go—I encourage you to pause and ask:
Is this a burden Christ is asking me to carry, or one I need to release?
Will pursuing this path glorify God or satisfy my flesh?
Can I trust God to work this out in His time and way?
Christ's life in us invites us to live differently—with grace, peace, and trust. Sometimes that means letting go of control and resting in the fact that God is far better at handling our battles than we are.
So for me, the choice is becoming clear. I will likely accept the car as it is and move forward, enjoying it without letting frustration take root. I choose to trust that God is in this, and that He will use it for His purposes.
Whatever decision you face, may you find peace in trusting Him fully.