What to do when opinions differ.
Romans 14:1 – For the one who is weak in faith, welcome him, but not to quarrel over opinions.
You are confident that your position is right. Your companion is confident in his. Disagreements happen often. That’s just a reality. But the Bible cautions you about taking your disagreements into quarrels. How can you disagree respectfully? Focus on facts—and be careful, because the person you quote today might be getting four Pinocchios tomorrow! Don’t get personal. It is never helpful or productive to go on the attack. Find the nugget of wisdom or truth in the other person’s view…it is hidden in there somewhere.
Truly listen, without using the lull in your own speech to formulate your next statement. Realize that you might never be able to persuade the other person to assume your opinion. Be respectful. Know when to move on. “I think we will just have to agree that we disagree on this,” is the out you need so offer a sincere smile when you say it. Finally, remember the encouragement you received from the Apostle Paul in Ephesians 4:32, “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.”
Pray With Us
God in Heaven, Thank You that You are continually teaching me to be quick to listen and slow to anger. Help me also be slow to push my opinions on others who haven’t asked for them, especially in these tense days leading up to the election. I know that quarreling grieves the Holy Spirit, and so I want to avoid it altogether. Ephesians 5:1-2 reminds me to be an imitator of You, O God, and to walk in love, just as Jesus did. Guide my steps, my thoughts, and my words, for I ask it of You in Jesus’ Name,
Amen.
