U-Turn Towards Peace (Peacemaker 3)

When conflict arises, it’s easy to focus on others’ faults instead of looking in the mirror. In this challenging and encouraging message, Pastor Chris Teien teaches how making a "U-turn" toward personal responsibility can bring peace, healing, and stronger relationships. Discover practical ways to own your part in conflict, pursue reconciliation, and live out the humility and love of Christ.

Link: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/16335694

Key Points:

1. Our natural reaction is to blame others – True peace begins when we examine our own hearts and contributions (Luke 12:13–15; Genesis 3).
2. A prompt U-turn promotes peace – Repenting quickly and addressing our role in conflict prevents long-term damage (Psalm 73:21–22; Matthew 7:1–5).
3. True reconciliation requires a transformed heart – Only God's work inside us enables forgiveness, patience, and genuine change (Ezekiel 36:25–27; James 4:1–3).
4. Choosing humility over accusation – Jesus calls us to first remove the "plank" in our own eye before confronting others (Matthew 7:5).
5. Peacemaking starts with owning your words, actions, and motives – A heart surrendered to Christ can change the course of any relationship.

Personal Stories:
 Pastor Chris shares humorous and honest stories, including a confusing experience driving in Tijuana, marital humor from Adam and Eve, and real-world reflections on relational conflict. He also discusses the struggles of dealing with inner selfishness and the freedom that comes from focusing on personal transformation instead of fault-finding.

Quotes:

• “Making a U-turn in a conflict could be the very thing that saves a relationship.”
• “It’s easier to blame than to confess—but true peace begins with humility.”
• “A transformed heart will always seek reconciliation over retaliation.”

Takeaways:

1. Heart-level reflection: Ask God to reveal where you have contributed to conflict and need to seek forgiveness.
2. Daily-life application: Practice confession first when tensions rise rather than pointing fingers.
3. Spiritual step or challenge: Surrender your pride to God and invite Him to change your heart before addressing others' faults.
4. Practical next step: Memorize Matthew 7:3–5 and apply it the next time conflict surfaces.

Scripture:

• Luke 12:13–15 – Warning against greed and misplaced priorities
• Genesis 3 – The original blame-shifting after the fall
• Psalm 73:21–22 – Bitterness clouds judgment
• Matthew 7:1–5 – Removing the plank before helping others
• Ezekiel 36:25–27 – Promise of a new heart and Spirit
• James 4:1–3 – Selfish desires fueling conflict
• Matthew 15:18–19 – Out of the heart come evil thoughts and words

Keywords:
 Peacemaking, conflict resolution, Christian humility, forgiveness, transformation, relationships, reconciliation, biblical peace, self-examination, heart change

Closing Statement:
 Choosing to make a U-turn in conflict—by confessing our part and seeking peace—reflects Christ’s love and opens the door to deeper healing, stronger relationships, and lasting joy.

Message adapted using purchased sermon material from Peacemaker Ministries

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The WELL Faith Podcast shares practical, Bible-based messages from Pastor Chris Teien to help you worship, encourage, learn, and love in everyday life. A new message is released every Sunday. Episodes marked with an asterisk (*) are replay episodes from previous years. Find resources at ChrisTeien.com and Rockwell.Church in Virginia, MN, and follow and review the podcast on your favorite listening platform.