IT DEPENDS ON ME

Before bed, I picked up my phone to read a blog that I enjoy, a Christian blog that graciously confronts the perplexities of homelessness and the plight of the homeless.

However, tonight’s post wasn’t on the homeless crisis but on an even more difficult and controversial topic. I subscribe to the blog and enjoy the  kind and respectful interaction between the authors and readers. Both span the distance to gently manage tough topics.

As I’m reading the content, uneasiness, anxiety, and agitation begin to bubble up inside me. My heart beats faster -my mind and spirit disturbed by the discussion. I can’t be a spectator. I must charge the arena and have my say. I disagree with both the author and the reader. In the midst of drafting my rebuttal, I become aware of The Voice, “Quiet.”

I’m tired of polarization and arguments that never end. What is being accomplished through all these angry debates? Minds rarely change, and lives lost -literally.

You are watching – listening. You catch my thoughts before I finish typing my rebuttal. I know Your Voice. That Voice, still and small, full of mercy, love, and power, whispering to me, “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” Romans 12:18 (NIV)

Tonight, peace is possible because it depends on me. What’s the point? Do I never respond to that which I know is wrong? No. There are points to be made and disagreements to be had. But these moments of truth must be shared in a spirit of love and grace, minus the irritation and aggravation.

Given. Not every conversation or confrontation benefits from the advantages of a cooling off period.  But far more do,  and could,  than most admit. Many hasty exchanges are unnecessary. Rarely does a remark have to come immediately.

Living at peace with others depends on me more than I acknowledge. The real issue in maintaining peace is self-control, not the argument. If I refuse the opportunity to immediately state or defend my opinion, or confront an offense done to me, what is lost?

Honestly, what have I lost by not taking this opportunity? Pride. The last word. The satisfaction of having my say. You are still in control. The truth remains the truth. The facts remain the facts.

Your Word reminds me that You are my defender.  The fool is the one always airing his opinions.  Wisdom points out that it is to a man’s credit to overlook an offense.

It is the truth that sets free, not the argument over it. Your Spirit opens eyes and hearts, not mine. You are the way, the truth, and the life -not my arguments, opinions, nor the ability to cleverly state my case. Perhaps, I think too much of myself.

You speak the truth in love.  You are not rude. You are a gentle servant, not demanding others acknowledge you now (that day will come). You allow others to choose or deny You. You don’t pound on the heart’s door until it slams open. You respect free will; You invented and gave it to everyone. I would be wise to remember this in my conversations and disagreements with others.

Tonight, peace is possible because it depends on me. Because of You, I choose peace.

The last Word: 

“Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ.” Ephesians 4:15 (NIV)

“For God is not a God of disorder but of peace...” I Corinthians 14:33 (NIV)

“The fruit of righteousness will be peace. Yes, its effect will be quietness and confidence forever.” Isaiah 32:17 (NIV)

“The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit, is life and peace.” Romans 8:6 (NIV)

“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace.” Colossians 3:15 (NIV)