Wednesday, November 23, 2016

Congratulations! You lost….


 Is winning the argument worth losing your testimony?

There are a million and one reasons to get into a verbal altercation or even a physical altercation with someone. Life’s catastrophic blend of emotions, frustrations and disappointments can create a powder keg eagerly awaiting ignition.

Despite the many reasons to blow our tops, there is usually one good reason to keep calm and work through it. 

According to an article on Chron.com, there is a tragic but telling story of a pair of moose that got into it – in more ways than one. (Side bar: How is moose the plural for moose???)

Male moose typically battle for the affection of a female moose during the fall mating season by warring with their antlers and ramming their bodies. This process can lock their antlers and potentially cause the moose to die from starvation if they cannot separate.

Photo: Jeff EricksonThe Bible says in Philippians 1:27, “Above all, you must live as citizens of heaven, conducting yourselves in a manner worthy of the Good News about Christ. Then, whether I come and see you again or only hear about you, I will know that you are standing together with one spirit and one purpose, fighting together for the faith, which is the Good News,” (NLT).

The article explained that two men were walking the grounds of a bible camp when they happened upon a pair of antlers protruding from the ground. Upon further inspection, the men realized it was not one moose but two. Their antlers were intertwined and the moose were frozen beneath the surface of an iced body of water.

When portions of the moose were exhumed from their frozen grave, it was determined that the antlers from one moose pierced the skull of the other. Subsequently, that moose died and drug them both into the freezing water.

Ever had someone say something so mean it seemed to physically hurt you?

Ephesians 4:1

“Therefore I, a prisoner for serving the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of your calling, for you have been called by God” (NLT)

Too many people have experienced death behind someone’s stubbornness or bad attitude. Although every disagreement doesn’t end in physical death, those arguments have decimated relationships, friendships, work relations, team relations, and more.

In your effort to prove your point and stand your ground what was the consequence and who were the casualties?

As believers, we are charged with the personal responsibility of being living examples of Jesus Christ. It’s greater than who sees you holding your tongue in an altercation or restraining your hands in a heated moment. Right is right regardless of who recognizes it. You are called to live righteously.

Paul said he was willingly shackled to serving God. Instead of being a prisoner to your anger, allow God to be the guard keeper to your heart. Permit Him to lead you in your valley moments.

Yes, someone is always observing your behavior – trust me I know. I politely dismiss bad drivers now that my “see and say” kids are usually riding with me. But, the blessing is that the Holy Spirit resides in us and will help us control our actions.

People who talk behind your back will never get ahead of you and those who stir strife will never taste real success.

Don’t die unnecessarily on an irrelevant battlefield. Learn to let go or leave it alone until you can find a peaceable solution. 

Here is the link to the full article:



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