Life can be very full. We meet and communicate with many people every day. These people are likely to be preoccupied with things in their own life. At times we may encounter different perspectives and friction. How do we respond?

I know I have truly struggled with this in the past. Mistakenly believing my opinion was the only point of view worth considering, I would rigidly hold onto my need to be right, and try to change the other persons mind. If I later discovered I was incorrect, I felt as though someone had taken something from me. Have you ever wrestled with anything like this?

Reacting strongly to someone else’s viewpoint can lead to relationship breakdowns. Regardless of our intentions, it is unlikely to end well.

First we must become aware that our need to be right is the real problem, and not the other person’s opinion. For what is an opinion:

A view or judgement formed about something, not necessarily based on fact or knowledge

https://languages.oup.com/google-dictionary-en

Sometimes I have viewed my opinions as facts. And boy oh boy have I been wrong at times. If my thinking and requirement to always be correct is an obstacle to loving my neighbour, I have a problem.

The New Testament and the commandments are where I find my rules to live by. Loving my God and loving my neighbour as myself are the top two commandments according to Jesus.

If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.

Romans 12:18 NIV

Being in unity does not mean we all have to have the same opinion. We are all unique individuals, each with his or her own perspective. We are called to live in fellowship with all. This is possible if we submit our will to His and walk in love and humility on this earth.

So, we take this self-righteousness to God. We apologise and tell Him we want to change. We ask Him to transform our minds to make us more Christ-like every day and we accept our forgiveness.

Our Father God loves us so much. He sent His only son to die on the cross for our sins, so we might be saved. He won’t withhold His goodness to His children.

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