When Joseph sent his brothers home from Egypt to collect their father and return, he gave them some advice, “Don’t quarrel on the way back” (Genesis 45:24). He knew his brothers and their tendency to argue with each other. They had just received the good news that their brother was alive and that they would not run out of food. This was no time to argue.
In my observation, people argue when times are difficult. We also argue when things are going well. Some of the worst church disputes I have ever seen came after God blessed the church with something really good. We can be at our worst when God is at his best.
In his last letter, Paul told Timothy to warn God’s people against quarreling. Then he instructed Timothy: “The Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but kind to everyone . . .” A small child wore a T-shirt to Tallowood with the message, “Kindness is my superpower.” Pastors gently instruct in the hope that people will repent as God reveals the truth.
What shall we say, today, if someone wants to argue? Practice these words with me: “I have no quarrel with you.” The next time someone wants to argue, choose not to engage. Leave room for God. We may win people’s hearts if we give up on winning every argument.
