Everyone was engaged and having a great time except for Ed. Sitting on the front row, with arms crossed and a stern look, Ed repeatedly challenged the material Matt was presenting to the group.

With each interruption by Ed, Matt felt more and more frustrated and distracted. But, a change in attitude occurred with Ed when Matt created an alliance between them.

By soliciting his opinions and input throughout Matt’s presentation, Matt was able to include Ed, avoiding further unexpected and interrupted confrontations.

The Bible says a great way to create alliances and mend relationships is to give a gift. Prov. 21:14 says “A gift given in secret soothes anger.”

Gifts come in many forms, sometimes it can be acknowledging someone’s value. Today, create alliances with others by sharing the stage with them.

Today’s “Integrity Moment” was adapted with permission from the writings of Matt Cline.