Dealing with difficult people

by Rick Warren

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If you learn how to deal with difficult people early on, then you'll
be able to pour more energy into ministry rather than needless
conflicts."

Rick Warren
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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 ministry is
knowing how to handle troublemakers. If you learn how to deal with
difficult people early on, then you'll be able to pour more energy
into ministry rather than 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.
Leadership Development Skills

Looking for the leadership skills needed to succeed in ministry? Check
out these leadership messages first delivered by Rick Warren to the
leadership at Saddleback Church. Learn about spiritual warfare,
earning the right to lead, time management and more. Learn more >>

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What should you do with these types?

Jesus had to deal with a lot of difficult people. Here are 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.

Make this Bible verse your goal this week, "If it is possible, as far
as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone." (Rom. 12:18 NIV)