Iron dulling Iron..Wait? Is that right?
April 27th, 2011 by Burlw
I had a fascinating conversation over lunch with a friend that I really admire. As he and I discuss and at times disagree over issues, I find from time to time that I must either re-think my position on something or be willing to change that position. Confronting ideas that are opposed to the way you think in general is a great thing. I believe that we are both better for the friendship. I pray that in your world, there are people who will disagree with you in love. If all our friends agree with us 100% of the time, then we aren’t growing. Seek out those people who will challenge your presuppositions and grow in your faith, knowledge and abilities as a leader.
I grew up in a household where argument was not tolerated. My husband was the first person I met who didn’t take disagreement personally. In fact, he actively encouraged me to learn to fight for what I believed.
I did get a little carried away at first and for a short while I was arguing with everything he said. I still remember the bemused way he kept looking at me back then – like he was wondering if he’d created a monster.
But I eventually learned to pick my causes, and we’ve been very happy together for the last 16 years. Every the morning we debate the news, quite happily.
A friend who can engage you in lively debate is definitely a friend to be treasured.
I needed to hear this today, Burl. Thank you.
I was involved in a conversation yesterday (online) with several Christian friends and I asked a question about a bit of Scripture that I didn’t understand. I just asked for opinions and thought. One of the women got very angry at me and told me to consult the Holy Spirit, not humans, because conversation about Scripture can cause disagreements and hurt feelings. I was floored. I really felt like I was in the wrong: Like, “how dare I discuss Scripture!”
(I apologized and she felt vindicated, saying, “See, someone got their feelings hurt.” Which, of course, only happened because of her own comment. ha!)
Thanks for sharing Amie! I enjoy my friends who don’t believe exactly the same way I do. More than enjoy them, we genuinely love each other as brothers and sisters in Christ. (At least those who are Christians.) Those who aren’t, I love as my fellow human beings.
Meg, Glad you found a man who could help you find your voice…and tolerate you for long enough for you to remember civility and the ability to choose your battles. Thanks for your thoughts!
Burl, et al. If you ever wonder what real iron sharpening will do for us all, read the following. If you’ve wondered what the right “socialization” is, read the following. Here’s just one more example of a family that has chosen to not place their children in public schools, but instead place them in a home school where they learned to not pursue the kingdom of self. They have been moved from lesson to life.
http://www.visionforum.com/news/blogs/doug/2011/04/9416/
Ron,
That was an inspiring article. Thanks for sharing.