Have you ever had an argument with your parents?
Have you ever been frustrated because their logic doesn’t make sense?
When you are frustrated, how do you talk to them?
What is the goal in arguing with your parents- or anyone?
If your goal is to prove that you’re right- you are missing out on a healthy chance to grow.
Arguing, believe it or not, is actually healthy. How many of you agree 100% of the time with everyone you know? We are all made differently. We think differently, feel differently, process information differently. It’s natural to argue, because we are different. Arguing doesn’t mean yelling. It doesn’t mean name-calling. It doesn’t have to result in anger or hurt. So, what should our goal be?
UNDERSTANDING. Rather than try to prove your point, try to understand theirs.
1 Peter 5:2-6New International Version (NIV)
“2 Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; 3 not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. 4 And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that will never fade away.
5 In the same way, you who are younger, submit yourselves to your elders. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because,
“God opposes the proud
but shows favor to the humble.”[a]
6 Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.”
It can be hard to be under the authority of someone you disagree with. You don’t have to agree- but we are called to show respect, even when we don’t feel like it is deserved.
Here’s a challenge this week. Ask your parents what things make them feel most disrespected. Ask them what shows them respect. Make it your goal to UNDERSTAND, not prove. You might find others more willing to hear you out when you exercise humility.
-karyn