Conflict happens in all groups. It has to, or someone is not voicing their opinion at some point.  We cannot all agree all the time.  Think of the missed opportunities, or even potential saves, if folks had just voiced their heart and mind.

Instead two things can happen in conflict that can make forward progress difficult:

1.  Passive aggressiveness-When someone doesn’t feel like they could speak up, or are passed over, there could be efforts to sabotage what the rest of the team is doing through inactivity, or checking-out.  Basically saying verbally and non-verbally “whatever.”

2.  Aggressiveness-When someone doesn’t feel like a decision is good and overtly attacks with sarcasm, anger, or belittling.  Frequently personal.

The best response is assertiveness-giving your whole-hearted, honest appraisal and input in a way that is not a personal attack, but issue focused, and solution focused.  An assertive person is also prepared for potential rejection of their idea to go with what the team decides.

As always, pray.  Pray for your team to be unified.  John 13:34-35.