Dividing the Power = Multiplying Harmony

Can positive benefits derive from conflict? Yes, if it brings about positive, healthy change that is acceptable to each person. There is little value in conflict designed to exert control over others, either directly or indirectly. Fear of appearing weak and ineffective is a major motivation for creating conflict.

A controller can be aggressive or hostile to those they purportedly care for and love. These behaviors ultimately instill disrespect, contempt and rebellion. The controller may switch to seeking pity or imposing guilt to get compliance, which may initially be effective but will fail to bring about lasting positive results.

Each person needs a healthy sense of power and control. In healthy relationships power and control are equally allocated. Husbands and wives are equally submissive to each other by choice, not by coercion. Divisions of power flow from mutual trust of each person's skills and talents. Love and respect give rise to harmony, peace and security.

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It is also true that we must love God with all our heart, mind and strength, and that we must love others as much as we love ourselves. These commandments are more important than all the sacrifices and offerings that we could possibly make.

~Mark 12:33 Contemporary English Version