Peacemakers Needed: Turning the Other Cheek

Matt 5:39 But I tell you not to resist an evil person.(seek revenge, retaliate against) But whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also.

President Russell M. Nelson in his General Conference talk entitled "Peacemakets Needed" says:

"Anger never persuades. Hostility builds no one. Contention never leads to inspired solutions. Regrettably, we sometimes see contentious behavior even within our own ranks. We hear of those who belittle their spouses and children, of those who use angry outbursts to control others, and of those who punish family members with the “silent treatment.” We hear of youth and children who bully and of employees who defame their colleagues."

"The Savior’s message is clear: His true disciples build, lift, encourage, persuade, and inspire—no matter how difficult the situation. True disciples of Jesus Christ are peacemakers."

"My dear brothers and sisters, how we treat each other really matters! How we speak to and about others at home, at church, at work, and online really matters. Today, I am asking us to interact with others in a higher, holier way. Please listen carefully. “If there is anything virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy that we can say about another person—whether to his face or behind her back—that should be our standard of communication."

Turning the other cheek doesn't mean being a doormat or inviting someone to hurt you again. Turning the other cheek is a form of nonviolent resistance that aims to subvert their intent and break the cycle of violence. Culturally, a backhanded slap from a superior was a grave insult, and by turning the cheek, the victim forces the aggressor to use an open hand—a gesture of equality—effectively robbing them of the insult's power. The phrase is not a call to passively endure abuse, but a radical, nonviolent act of courage that challenges wrongdoing and affirms that one's dignity is not dependent on the aggressor's approval. 

The following podcast by Steven Bartlett 'Diary of a CEO' with guest Jefferson Fisher gives real direction in how to respond in the best ways when dealing with contentious situations. 

https://youtu.be/zsuOSDb7gzQ?si=F3-_qSsvxUXfMLIR

Communication Tips:

1. Take a Deep Breath

2. Pause

3. Untangle instead of argue

(Never seek to win an argument, seek for mutual understanding, prioritize relationships over issues)

4. Thank instead of apologize

5. Ask them to say it again 

6. Did you mean for that to sound short?

7. How would you like me to respond to that?

8. How did you feel as you said that to me in the way you did?