Navigate People Issues with Scripture

In the Spirit of Christmas and the celebration of the birth of Christ, I want to share some scriptures that have guided me through many difficult times throughout my career.

I’ve shared these verses with leaders, managers, supervisors, and employees alike—always with the gentle preface: “Can I share a piece of scripture with you that might be meaningful?”

For me, they have been a source of direction, comfort, clarity, and conviction. I pray they offer the same to anyone who reads this.

When You’re Angry and Want to Pinch Someone’s Head Off

Let’s face it, we’ve all been there. Those moments when frustration boils over, and you’re ready to say or do something you’ll regret. Here’s what has stopped me in my tracks more than once:

James 1:19-20 (NIV):
"My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires."

This verse is a practical reminder to slow down. Listen first, think before you speak, and let your anger simmer down before you respond. More often than not, a little pause can keep a situation from spiraling.

Whenever Employees Can’t Get Along

Conflict in the workplace is inevitable. When folks are at odds, this verse shifts the focus from retaliation to reconciliation:

Romans 12:20 (NIV):
"If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head."

It’s not about “getting back at someone” but about showing unexpected kindness. This can soften even the hardest hearts and open the door to resolution. I’ve used this verse often, and while it didn’t solve every conflict, it helped more times than not.

When You Don’t Know What to Do

If you’ve ever felt stuck or unsure of which way to go, it can feel overwhelming. This has been my “go-to” scripture for years:

Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV):
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight."

This verse reminds me that I don’t have to figure it all out on my own. Trusting God and seeking His wisdom will always lead to the right path—even if it doesn’t feel clear at the moment.

When You’re Frustrated

Deadlines, workplace drama, and everything in between can leave you feeling frazzled. Here’s a scripture that always grounds me:

Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV):
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

Pray about your frustrations and trust in His goodness. This has a way of easing the tension and replacing it with peace.

When You Want to Attack Someone Verbally

Words can heal, but they can also hurt. Here’s what scripture says about keeping your words in check:

Romans 12:18 (NIV):
"If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone."

Matthew 5:44 (NIV):
"But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you."

Proverbs 15:1 (NIV):
"A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger."

When you’re tempted to fire off a sharp comment, don’t. Nothing good ever follows it—trust me on this one.

When You Must Give Bad News

Delivering tough news is never easy, but grace can make it easier:

Colossians 4:6 (NIV):
"Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone."

This verse alone has carried me through many difficult situations. I’ve had more experience with this than I’d ever wish for, having been hired to close many plants.

It’s not a skill I value or celebrate, but it was a reality I had to navigate—one I approached with as much care and empathy as possible.

This is also the centerpiece of what we teach in our Academy classes. Every difficult conversation should start with grace—listening actively, attempting to understand the other person’s view, and acknowledging their value—before moving into the truth. That order matters.

When Things Go Completely Sideways (My Favorite Verse)

When life or work feels like a mess, this verse reminds me that trials have a purpose. We call it “experience” in the corporate world.

James 1:2-5 (NIV):
"Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything."

We learn from mistakes. Even the most precious metals are forged under pressure and fire. Every trial gives us an opportunity to grow, so long as we don’t quit. Perseverance through challenges shapes us into stronger, wiser people.

When You’re Tempted to Speak Poorly About Someone

Office gossip or frustration with others can easily slip into our conversations, but here’s what scripture says about that:

Ephesians 4:29 (NIV):
"Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen."

Proverbs 12:18 (NIV):
"The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing."

Proverbs 21:23 (NIV):
"Those who guard their mouths and their tongues keep themselves from calamity."

These verses remind us that our words should uplift, not tear down. This is also how “trust” is earned.

Managing Deadlines and Stress

When you’re juggling too much or feel the weight of pressure, these verses remind me I’m not alone:

Proverbs 12:25 (NIV):
"Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up."

Proverbs 16:3 (NIV):
"Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and He will establish your plans."

I leaned on these verses daily during a plant turnaround years ago, when it felt like we’d never turn the corner. I’ll never forget something my boss shared with me one morning that his wife told him. “It’s always darkest before the dawn.” While not scriptural, it provided hope and encouragement at the perfect time. Thanks Wes and Tess!

I hope these scriptures resonate and they serve you as well as they’ve served me. They remind us that no matter the challenges we face—whether in HR or in life—we can lean on God’s Word for wisdom, peace, and guidance because his word is Truth and Light.

Merry Christmas to everyone from all of us at Montgomery Hassell.