Gtcotr/ss040311
We all know how to argue but do we know how to problem solve?
1 Timothy 6
3 If anyone teaches otherwise and does not consent to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which accords with godliness,
4 he is proud, knowing nothing, but is obsessed with disputes and arguments over words, from which come envy, strife, reviling, evil suspicions,
5 useless wranglings of men of corrupt minds and destitute of the truth, who suppose that godliness is a means of gain. From such withdraw yourself.
Four Simple Steps to Solving the Problems of Life
1. Approach each disagreement with humility and an open mind.
a. Aggressiveness signals you want to fight
b. A closed mind is unreasonable unless you know everything
i. If you already know everything and have already decided what you are going to do – why argue about it.
ii. A one-sided argument might better hit its mark in writing
2. Don’t get obsessed with winning an argument.
a. Emotional arguments
b. Logical arguments
c. Especially arguments about words and meanings of words
d. Just because you win does not mean you are right
3. Never escalate a dispute by unreasonable provocation or accusation
a. Don’t jump to conclusions
b. Takes the focus off point
c. Prolongs any solution
d. Creates additional strife
e. Covers the truth
4. When you realize you are at odds with a fool, withdraw.
a. People with corrupted minds
b. Those destitute of the truth
c. Anyone whose primary goal is personal gain
Believe me when I tell you that no matter how bad it is now, you can make it worse.
To be angry with a child for being a child is in itself, childish.
You can afford to speak
. Last
. Calmly and Quietly
. With Kindness
. With a Smile
When you are in charge …
And most likely – you are in charge of you!
