Sitting It Out

We’re living in a culture where almost no one hesitates to say what’s on their mind. In the court of public opinion, every topic is fair game; every comment carries weight. So Paul’s sound advice to a young pastor is a good word for us today.

Social media, office politics, bickering among friends or family members or within a church—petty arguments are popping up around us almost constantly, like a never-ending game of whack-a-mole. Anytime they do, God invites us to pause, take a breath, and consciously decide: Am I going to join in or sit this one out?

We do have that choice. And according to Paul, it’s a choice worth taking seriously.

Conflict is essentially a bicycle built for two. When one person steps off and quits their quarrel ride, you can guarantee that, unless another rider comes along, the bike won’t be going much farther.

There are undoubtedly situations and topics that deserve our full (and patient) engagement. Paul’s own life bore this out. But for those little opinions that only stir up trouble, or the nitpicking over inconsequential things? We can leave those fight-starters alone, lest they become fire-starters.

Though sometimes I’m tempted to spout my opinion, give me the grace to hold my tongue and walk away from the pettiness before it starts.