"Do all things without complaining and disputing" Philippians 2:14 NKJV
Grumbling and complaining is an emotional negative response to something you don't like. Let's face it, we can't like everything in life but, that doesn't give us the right to complain and grumble about things especially, if it turns into a full-scale argument. These type of things hinder the work of God. A church that is continually in dispute and argument, is a church that is going to divide' and usually, division is the work of the devil.
To be in a place of complaint and argument leads us to be unproductive and it wastes precious time as we beat on about issues that are not worth it. Some people will argue and dispute scripture over and over seeing things that are just not there. All this does is bring about disputes that may be difficult to settle and a church split may be inevitable. When things become like this, arguments can begin, some that break relationships never to be repaired. If we check in Proverbs 15:1, we read, 'A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.' Sadly, this can be the result of not being in control of the mouth and allowing ourself to fall into the trap of not being like Jesus. Relationships may be shattered, ones where people have been friends for years and suddenly, the wrong thing is said. Think for a moment, has a relationship in your life been broken because of unkind words? Can it be repaired? If so, why not send an appropriate Christmas card to the person. It may help and build a bridge.
At times we need to take on the role of a negotiator; one where we can bring peace and healing to an otherwise war zone. Hey, this is the season of goodwill and peace so, spread it around. Also be mindful of : 'Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud 5 or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. 6 It does not rejoice about injustice, but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. 7 Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful and endures through every circumstance' (1 Corinthians 13:4-7 NLT).
If you need to take the role of negotiator, meditate on the words above and blend them into the conversation you may have with someone who needs it. It breathes peace into a life if it is received. If you feel wronged because of what someone has done or said to you; think, is it important enough to confront the person. If it is, pray it over, get some counsel on the affair and then, if it is still burning away, approach it in the role of negotiator. Many a war zone has been repaired with a gentle approach.
Copyright 2022 Grahame Howard.
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