We all want to persuade others to our viewpoints. In any setting of most any discussion, we want others to believe what we believe. This could even let pride creep into evangelism. We can’t argue someone into accepting Christ. We can only present the Gospel with peace and love, and our testimony of what Christ has done in our lives. It is not us that does the work, it is Christ. We must learn to back ourselves down into meekness, and the strength that arises is the glory of Him who made us.
Not win?
James 3:16 For where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there.
This entire chapter of James is speaking about the power of our speech. The blessings, the cursings, and the hypocrisy from the same mouth. Are you wired to try and win an argument? Do you find yourself compromising your integrity to try and drive your viewpoint home? That is pride and straight from Satan. Verse 15 says, “This wisdom does not descend from above, but is earthly, sensual, demonic.” We are so inclined to bring to front our thoughts, and our ways, that they can become self-seeking, and not glorifying to God.
There is a meekness in the wisdom of a true follower of Christ that brings with it a strength that the earthly wisdom will not comprehend. There is a peace that comes with the heavenly wisdom that does not need to “win.” Verse 17, “But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy.” We have all heard of the scriptures about turning the other cheek, and forgiving our enemies, and such. This is the wisdom of Peace, that comes with Christ, that surpasses all earthly understanding. What do you mean you don’t want to win?
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