Turmoil & Tranquil

I dreaded a meeting I needed to have this morning. I’m the one who called the meeting to discuss those hard things we all need to deal with at times. Your volatile situation may not be work related, it could be found in your group of friends, within your family, or in your church fellowship. Mine was a work situation where inappropriate actions and discussions had occurred while clients were present.

The lack of professionalism had brought about embarrassing and awkward moments. Disparaging comments had been made about our employer while his clients were present. I heard the statements made, and I observed the bad behaviors. I’m sure we can all agree this was and is not acceptable. Certainly, a severe warning was deserved, but the timing would not have allowed for a positive outcome. My anger would have been reflected in what I said, and how it was said.

Although, I knew it was appropriate to call the meeting to address the conduct, my heart was in turmoil because of it. I feared the worst. Because I expected objections during the discussion I did the only thing I could do to prepare for the meeting – I prayed! And, I prayed. I knew that every word I used would be examined, and my tone would either add to the turmoil in the office or my words and tone would bring about a tranquility where the hard truths could be discussed, accepted, and welcomed.

My prayerful goal was to speak in such a way as to build character through encouragement and changing of their mindset. Hopefully, they would understand their error, and commit to change. In your situation consider the following truths before you act.

1. What were and are the circumstances – personal and professional to the one who misbehaved?

2. What changes do we need to look at – in our own lives – that could possibly be overwhelming to others causing them to act out of turmoil?

3. What plan would you implement to bring peace of heart to the person who over-spoke and behaved inappropriately?

4. How would you calm the environment to build stronger relationships between all involved?

5. What personal changes can you make to help you serve others with more wisdom and grace?

• What causes quarrels and what causes fights among you? Is it not this, that your passions are at war within you (James 4:1).

• The words of the wise heard in quiet are better than the shouting of a ruler among fools (Ecclesiastes 9:17)

• If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him (James 1:5).

• The wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere (James 3:17).

• Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you (Philippians 4:5-9).

Having considered the word of God, and applied the principles discussed, the meeting was honoring and peaceable. God is faithful. His word is sufficient!

#turmoil