Proverbs 18:19 An offended friend is harder to win back than a fortified city. Arguments separate friends like a gate locked with bars.
Daily life is strewn with little incidents, traps laid by the evil one, to ignite arguments and offence, all designed to separate the closest of friends or families.
Yesterday I flew off the handle at my nearest and dearest in an ugly way. It had nothing to do with him, but was a build up of frustration over too many things to do and too little time to do them in.
How easy it is to be stirred up into a stupid argument that could escalate out of all proportion.
Thankfully, ours didn't!
Therefore it is wise to pick our battles. Not everything is worth fighting about or for.
We all have little "hobby horses" - things that "get on our nerves". Sitting here, I can think of petty triggers that make me lose my temper.
God forbid that one of these boils over and becomes an offence or argument that separates me from some loved one.
Maturity in Jesus will bring about a willingness to forego our own comfort and will in order to keep the peace.
A dear friend of mine and I made a pact at the start of the COVID situation that we would avoid diametric discussions about masks and vaccines. We valued our friendship too highly to fall out over differing opinions.
We knew all too well how arguments and offence can separate longstanding friendships.
Therefore, before starting an argument, let's ask ourselves: "is my viewpoint worth fighting for?"
Obviously, there are matters that are pivotal to our faith in Jesus, and then we should stand our ground in a loving, but firm manner.
Romans 12:18 If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.
Prayer
Abba Father please deliver me from petty disputes and grant me a peaceful demeanour to reflect the love of Jesus.
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