When Paul was writing to the Philippian believers, he was particularly concerned about them being in a place of unity and not in disagreement with each other. His advice, when there are contentious issues between us, is to focus on what we have in Christ Jesus, instead of our differences. When we make a concerted effort to think on the good things we share in Christ, the issues that seemed impossible to resolve between us fade in comparison. Philippians 2:2-5 drives home Pauls instruction to believers to be of the same mind, and same purpose and not allow strife or selfishness to break down the unity amongst us. Strife is a work of the flesh, and an effective tool of the devil to destroy the blessing of God in our lives. It brings anxiety and division and opens our lives to every other evil work of the enemy. Paul said that God’s peace will guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. When we are wise and humble enough to choose prayer and trust during times of strife and anxiety, we will experience the supernatural peace of God. It really is unexplainable how God’s peace can completely neutralise and soften the most hardened of hearts. The only effective way to settle disagreements between brothers and sisters in Christ is to have a mind that is controlled by the peace of God. If you find yourself facing a struggle with another believer – surrender your heart and mind completely to the Lord, and let His peace take control. You’ll be astounded at how the devil’s plan for division and destruction is completely reversed as you let God’s peace be your response.