I came across the following article by Rick Warren in his weekly newsletter known as Rick Warren's Ministry Toolbox and thought I would share it. Happy Reading!!
When asked what he considered the most valuable skill in employees, John D. Rockefeller once replied, "The ability to get along with people!" One of the most important skills needed to succeed in life is knowing how to handle troublemakers. Learning to deal with difficult people will enable to avoid needless conflicts.
Troublemakers come in all shapes:
THE SHERMAN TANK - will run over you if you let him.
THE MEGAPHONE - will talk your ear off.
THE BUBBLE BUSTER - deflates everyone's enthusiasm.
THE VOLCANO - has a temper like Mt. St. Helens.
THE CRY BABY - is a chronic complainer.
THE NIT PICKER - is the unpleasable perfectionist.
THE SPACE CADET - is on a different wavelength.
Jesus had to deal with a lot of difficult people. Four methods he modeled through his life:
1. Realize you can't please everybody (John 5:30). Even God can't do that! One wants rain while the other demands sunshine.
2. Refuse to play their game (Matt. 22:18). Learn to say no to unrealistic expectations. Confront them by "telling the truth in love."
3. Never retaliate (Matt. 5:38-39). It only lowers you to their level.
4. Pray for them (Matt. 5:44). It will help both of you. Let God handle them.
