Today's Reading:O.T. - 2 Chronicles 22 - 24
N.T. - Titus 3
I will be speaking about this text and topic at Evensong Worship, on Sunday evening, February 25.
Focus Verses: Titus 3:9-11
9But avoid foolish controversies and genealogies and arguments and quarrels about the law, because these are unprofitable and useless. 10Warn a divisive person once, and then warn him a second time. After that, have nothing to do with him. 11You may be sure that such a man is warped and sinful; he is self-condemned.
Insight:
Being argumentative is dangerous and divisive. It’s one thing to ask hard questions, to reason through disagreements, and to work through important issues that require critical thinking. It is another thing altogether to be quarrelsome and nitpicky about things that are of questionable value. An unhealthy interest in controversy is usually indicative of a rebellious and divisive spirit. It is sinful and distorted to value your own opinions (and the sound of your own voice) over the people with whom you disagree. People who are contrary and divisive over unimportant and unknowable things are hurting themselves. It is wrong to live that way, and it's dangerous to be associated with such a person.
Response and Action:
I will avoid foolish and stupid arguments. I will not value my opinions over people. When there is an issue or controversy that is important to me, I will strive to discuss it and process it in humble and respectful ways. As much as it is up to me, I will not let disagreements divide me from others. I will exercise restraint in areas of opinion. I will recognize and remember that some things are not important enough to argue about. I will not discuss difficult issues with people who are unable to do so without being threatened and upset. I will not let unimportant things become quarrels that hurt and divide.
O God, show me your ways. Guide me in your truth and teach me. Give me a humble spirit so that I can be teachable. Give me sensitivity and care for others that I might be able to discuss important and difficult things in constructive and loving ways. Amen.
Proverbs: 20:3
"It is to a man's honor to avoid strife, but every fool is quick to quarrel."
Resources:
Talking About Good And Bad Without Getting Ugly
by Paul Chamberlain
