“An unfriendly person pursues selfish ends and, against all sound judgment, starts quarrels.”
I have this person in my life. Almost all of us do. Early in my life, I learned that whenever possible, I should work to no longer have them in my life. Nothing dramatic needs to take place—I simply move away from the times and places where our paths usually cross. It is a bit more difficult with a coworker (unless you’re the boss) or a relative. There can be tension within us as we recognize their need for a Savior and our desire for peace. I would mention that someone’s eternity is ultimately not based on us. No one will stand before God and be able to say, “If only Kevin had…”. That being said, we are commanded to be salt and light, as well as to share the Gospel and make disciples. Sometimes, how we avoid quarrels with the unfriendly person in this verse shows those watching how God’s people live. Stepping into quarrels is almost never God’s way. Flipping a few tables occasionally might be, but we are called to be peacemakers and instruments of God’s love and peace. Therefore, walking away—even when wronged—is most often God’s design. It can be hard, especially when we are right. Pursuing peace as God’s followers is always our calling. Today, seek peace. #BeTheEdge
“Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it.” Psalm 34:14 NIV
