Good morning people who step away from trouble before it escalates.

Proverbs 17:14 MEV The beginning of strife is as when one lets out water; therefore abandon contention before a quarrel starts.

Abandon contention before a quarrel starts is such great advice.

I have found that many quarrels (fights) are avoidable if we are just willing to step back from a focus on being right. In fact, fighting for our rights is often like pouring fuel on a fire.

Now, I am not talking about not standing up for truth – not at all. Those of you who have read BIY for any length of time would know that I am big on not swaying at all from the truth. We need to be anchored to truth, and we need to be willing to be persecuted for righteousness’ sake.

But we need to make sure that it is actually for righteousness’ sake, and not because of our stubborn refusal to lose a battle.  

When there is a difference of opinion that is not based in truth, how do we respond in a conversation?

I now hear the Holy Spirit challenge us all with a similar question, but to shift the focus to when it is based in truth.

When there is a difference of opinion that is based on what we know is the truth, how do we respond in a conversation?

One of the important growth areas in my life has been learning to know which battles Father is asking me to fight. It is not my place to right every wrong. Nor is it my place to defend God.

When Father says to speak, I must speak the truth in love.

But when Father tells me to be quiet and hold my tongue (and it happens lots of times), I need to do just that.

How is your spiritual discernment on which battles Father wants you to fight?