Have you ever engaged someone in "conversation" (read that argument) about things of a spiritual nature? Have you tried to share a concept or ideal contained in God's Word in regards to a current event or topic of conflicting views? If so, have you found yourself trying to defend your beliefs... in ways or through words that will more likely turn the other person more against God than towards Him?
(Uh, oh... I'm meddling now...) Why would I ask such a thing? Uh... because I am guilty as charged.
It is man's nature to want to be right. It is man's nature to take pride in being right. That said, it is man's nature to do whatever it takes to "appear" right and make sure others know it. Today's culture calls that "respect". Engaging in this kind of "self-inflating" behavior can have results ranging from increased blood pressure to damaged relationships... all for the sake of "appearing" right.
Let's take a look at some verses that deal with this issue...
2 Timothy 2:23-26
New Living Translation (NLT)
23 Again I say, don't get involved in foolish, ignorant arguments that only start fights. 24 A servant of the Lord must not quarrel but must be kind to everyone, be able to teach, and be patient with difficult people. 25 Gently instruct those who oppose the truth. Perhaps God will change those people's hearts, and they will learn the truth. 26 Then they will come to their senses and escape from the devil's trap. For they have been held captive by him to do whatever he wants.
Anyone else take that one between the eyes? Hey, batter, batter...
Proverbs 3:5-7
New Living Translation (NLT)
5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart;
do not depend on your own understanding.
6 Seek his will in all you do,
and he will show you which path to take.
7 Don't be impressed with your own wisdom.
Instead, fear the Lord and turn away from evil.
Ephesians 4:29-32
New Living Translation (NLT)
29 Don't use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them.
30 And do not bring sorrow to God's Holy Spirit by the way you live. Remember, he has identified you as his own, guaranteeing that you will be saved on the day of redemption.
31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. 32 Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.
Somewhere about there, it was time to re-evaluate my motivation for appearing "right"...
Before we "engage" an opposing view, we need to humble ourselves before God and seek to be "right" in
His eyes rather than our own.
