Living without complaining and arguing
The influential 20th-century philosopher Karl Popper said,
‘The aim of argument should not be winning, but progress.’
Have you ever been in an argument? Of course you have. Everyone has. When you were in the argument, was your goal to win? Of course it was. It’s pretty much everyone’s goal. But the lesson we struggle to learn is that when it comes to arguing, almost no one really ‘wins’. The person who wins the point is often the person who loses the relationship. Maybe not permanently, but damage will be done.
Complaining and arguing can so easily creep into our lives, causing division and negativity. Maybe if we take a moment, we can think about situations we are currently in where conflict is causing ourselves and others pain.
Philippians 2:14 (NLT) says,
‘Do everything without complaining and arguing.’
Why does Paul write this? Apparently, many believers in Philippi were caught up in arguing and fighting with one another and this was harming the life and public testimony of the church. This wasn’t productive discussion over issues of justice. This was individuals intent on getting the upper hand and winning the argument. Such behaviour is not a reflection of obedience to Christ. In fact, it was harming the mission and ministry of the church.
As followers of Jesus, we are called to be lights in a dark world. Philippians 2:15 (NLT) says,
‘Live clean, innocent lives as children of God, shining like bright lights in a world full of crooked and perverse people.’
Have we ever experienced complete darkness? [Be sensitive as this might be the daily reality for some individuals present.] The relief that light brings, whether by a light bulb, a torch or even just a match, is significant and changes how we feel. Our actions, attitudes and character can serve as a beacon of hope and guidance to those who feel lost in the darkness of sin or hopeless for the future.
Philippians 2 goes on to encourage us to hold on to the word of God which provides guidance and strength when we feel out of our depth. In all situations of life, the Bible can give us truth, direction and wisdom. If we study Scripture, it will sustain us through life and ensure we are doing God’s will.
Our focus in life therefore needs to be on Jesus, and we should avoid getting embroiled in petty arguments and disputes. We need to shine like bright lights in the world and hold on to the word of God as our compass.
‘As children of God, our lives are meant to be a living testimony to the transforming power of Christ, shining brightly in a world desperately in need of his light.’
– Rev Dr Dean Courtier
PRAYER
Father God, help me to be at peace with everyone I come into contact with. Give me the patience to hold my tongue and to listen more than I speak. May I always remember that every person I come into contact with is also a child of God, worthy of respect and love. Let me not hold on to bitterness, anger or resentment, but rather seek to forgive as you have forgiven me.
Amen.
