Can two walk together, except they be agreed? Amos 3:3 (KJV)
Winston Churchill said that if two people agree on everything, one of them isn’t thinking. On the other hand, Ruth Graham loved to quote Dale Carnegie who said, “When two partners always agree, one of them is not necessary.” If that’s the case in our current environment, we must be doing a lot of thinking and needing each other because there seems to be very little agreement on anything. However, only a blind and deaf person would say that’s true today.
How can we possibly walk (or live) together without unity? Paul tells us that we should do all we can to live at peace with everyone (Romans 12:18). He doesn’t suggest that we compromise our beliefs but that we should be agreeable with all people. We can determine that we will agree to disagree (if it’s possible). We’re told to “have nothing to do with foolish, ignorant controversies; … they breed quarrels. And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but kind to everyone…” (II Timothy 2:23). God holds his children to a higher standard.
Is it necessary to be right in a discussion or to win an argument? “…love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered…” (I Corinthians 13:4, 5). What difference does it make if our viewpoint isn’t praised? If we’re not recognized as having Solomon-like wisdom? The highest law is that of love, and love doesn’t fail.
Let us put aside our petty disagreements and walk in love as Christ loved us and gave himself for us. Let’s put aside our ego-centrism so that we start putting God and others first. This world would be a much more pleasant place, and I’m certain the Lord would be pleased.
Father, the rancor is getting out of hand. Convict us to love and care for each other just as you love us—unconditionally and despite all our flaws. In Jesus’ name. AMEN.
agodforeveryday 