Disagreements happen. There’s no denying it. One of the worst arguments in the Bible was between Paul and Barnabas - one of the most successful ministry teams of all time. And it was all about the guy John Mark. Barnabas wanted to take him on their next missionary journey and Paul didn’t. Paul felt so strongly about this that it caused a split between them and they went their separate ways. Later on we’re told that Paul changed his mind: ^‘Get Mark and bring him with you, because he is helpful to me in my ministry’. From being frustrated with Mark and splitting from Barnabas, Paul reconsidered and came to the conclusion that Mark would be helpful in ministry. So what can we learn from this? When people let us down, disappoint us or don’t do things the way that we think is best, we need to start looking for the best in them. Everyone deserves another chance. We all make mistakes, we all need God’s grace and forgiveness and we all need to extend those to others too. Also, we need to make sure that we’re not putting our own preferences, ideas and passions above loving people. Not everyone is called to the same thing, or called to do it the same way as us. So let’s not judge other people or avoid working with someone because they don’t seem to fit with what we’re trying to do. And let’s make sure we’re trying to see the best in others. There’s weakness and brokenness in us all, but there’s also treasure. God sees the treasure in us, so let’s be people who strive to see the treasure in others.

What now?

Is there someone you really don’t get along with? Pray that God would show you the treasure in that person.