They say black and you say white, they think right and you think left.

NO, . . . you can change neighborhoods without changing neighbors! 

Changing neighborhoods involves moving.  A big job if you have a lot of stuff.  It is worth it to avoid gang fights and turf wars.  This is especially true since this is not our home turf!  Let's examine some facts:

• Hardwired.  This refers to the natural process of thought and order.  How we think things should look and run.  There are interesting tests for this.  Thinking along the same lines eliminates conflict.
• Our turf . . . kingdom ground!  Change your thinking to adjust your altitude.  Only God knows the end from the beginning.  His requirements are faith and cooperation.  Stop trying to be the ruler in this place!
• Moving - it is dumpster time.  You need a broom and dustpan . . . or even a shovel!  Look under all the rugs; is there a mound to clean out?  You know the drill.  Forgive, make a choice to forget, wipe the slate clean.  Pack the good history.

Start within.  Look at conflict as a place to grow.  Allow the Lord to blend individual strengths.

Recognize your natural preferences.  How strongly do they affect you?

Align yourself.  God chose earthen vessels for His treasure.  Wet clay is slippery- at times even slimy!

Look for the treasure in others.  Align yourself to God in these things and you take one potential contender out of action . . . YOU!

• Declare the advance . . . the plans and purposes of God will come forth.  Declare unity, cast down division and strife.  Refuse to agree with the enemy in your thoughts or emotions.
• Agree on a strategy in advance to head off potential conflict.
• Celebrate every victory.  Forgive yourself and others when you don't quite make it.  Realize what doesn't break you . . . defines you.
• Relationships tested by fire are a strong affront to darkness. They become a solid and secure place to stand together in times of trial and war.