How do I keep conflict to a minimum?

Proverbs 17:27A truly wise person uses few words; a person with understanding is even-tempered.

Be careful with your words. Words can be used as tools to build or weapons to destroy—choose them carefully.

Proverbs 26:17Interfering in someone else’s argument is as foolish as yanking a dog’s ears.

It is sometimes tempting to step into someone else’s argument to help “solve it,” but doing so often only makes it worse.

Matthew 5:23-24“So if you are presenting a sacrifice at the altar in the Temple and you suddenly remember that someone has something against you, leave your sacrifice there at the altar. Go and be reconciled to that person. Then come and offer your sacrifice to God.”

Don’t “bury” or deny conflict, but rather take immediate steps to resolve it.

Romans 12:18Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone.

Ephesians 4:3Make every effort to keep yourselves united in the Spirit, binding yourselves together with peace.

Work actively to be at peace with others. The more you are at peace with God, the more you will be at peace in your relationships.