I don't argue! Yes, you do!

"In everything you do, stay away from complaining and arguing, so that no one can speak a word of blame against you. You are to live clean, innocent lives as children of God in a dark world full of crooked and perverse people. Let your lives shine brightly before them.”
-Philippians 2:14,15 (NLT)

The Challenge: Think of the person you argue with the most (could be a family member) and try to not argue with them for a month. The “easiest” way to accomplish this is to “take it like a man” and keep your mouth closed when every bone in your body is telling you to defend yourself. (If arguing isn't that hard to give up, try not complaining for a month!)

This probably won't mean much to you until you are at a point in your life when you want to start living as an example of Christ. I must warn you that this is no easy task. When you choose to follow Christ to the extent of calling yourself an example of Christ, you will be forced to examine every area of your life. You will be forced to give up your selfish desires, your plans, your pride, your whole life in order to follow Christ wholly. Arguing is one area we need to address if we concerned about being a good example of Christ.

I tested not arguing with my wife, Kate, and the results were remarkable. It was hard at first not to react when I really, really wanted to defend myself or prove her wrong. About a week later, I realized I was actually getting in the habit of not arguing! When one of us would say something a little harsh, I didn't automatically jump into it with all my guns locked and loaded. Entire days were redeemed – less stress, less hurt feelings, more love. I noticed this too: The more I stayed away from arguing, the less Kate argued too – it's contagious!

Anyone can see a difference in how we treat each other now. In fact, that's the point – we are supposed to exemplify love towards each other. Think about it: If we can't love those closest to us, how can you expect to love the unlovable – those Christ called us to love?

“In everything you do, stay away from complaining and arguing...”