Not many people like chaos, change, and conflict. Yet, it is inevitable. Therefore, our perspective and reaction to it is vital in determining outcomes. For some, we want to get away from chaos and conflict at all costs. So, we choose to ignore an aggravating situation like it never happened, try to laugh it off, attempt to find something good in it, and/or simply run away from it by detaching ourselves from the situation and/or person(s) completely.

Perhaps we have attempted all these strategies at some point in our lives, and if so, we have realized, they rarely advance well. Rather, they may prolong the challenge, awkwardness, and irritation. Which leads us to try and deaden the pain of the situation even more.

Yet, Jesus never did any of these things and was surrounded by chaos, conflict, and challenge routinely. Rather, He courageously entered the chaos for the opportunity to create change. Ultimately, for the good of others and the advancement His Father’s purposes.

Therefore, chaos creates opportunities. Courageous leaders choose to enter these situations, not gleefully, but intentionally – To glorify God in the process by making the most of the opportunity (Ephesians 5:16).

Challenges present, unlike any other, times for Christians to truly be the “salt and light” we are called to be. We do not have to like, or enjoy the chaotic environment we find ourselves, but we can seek creative transformation for all parties involved. We can not deny, or deaden the reality of the pain and difficulty – rather, acknowledge it, feel it, but choose not to run from it. These are our opportunities to address challenges and chaos God’s way. This casts His reflection on the situation, which presents it in a whole new light.

As a result, we grow in our reliance, trust, and communion with God, as well as our love, forgiveness, and sharpening. These are times disciples are polished, accountability is upheld, and integrity is forged. We get to help others grow, as we grow, and whether reconciliation is achieved, or not, the outcome can be beneficial as we grow in our discipline to stand up under pressure, remain faithful, and dutiful to God’s purposes over our own.

May we enter the chaos that will come our way not foolishly, but wisely, fully aware of its difficulty, but also fully intentional and available to be God’s instrument for instruction, and change agents for good.