Sometimes you just have to let the devil have the argument.
I was starting to get into an argument with someone yesterday and the Lord reminded me that sometimes, the best answer is deafening silence. There will be times when no matter how much truth is spoken, the argument will continue, ad nauseam, because the one with whom you are arguing does not care about truth, they only care about being right.
So, you will have to walk away, allowing them to assume they are right and that they have silenced you with their argument. And you will be humbled by your silent obedience to the Lord. And a little of your flesh will die, because you will be tempted to rebut just one more time, your flesh will cry out to have its say, but you mustn’t. For in so doing, you will be strengthened in your inner man, and you will rise above the argument itself, to where all those who walk by the Spirit dwell.
Indeed, we are called to speak truth. But there will be times when we encounter individuals who will attempt to draw us into arguments that, if we continue to engage in them, will bring shame upon Christ’s image in us. An image that does not engage in petty, circular argument. An image that speaks the truth, and then moves on when it becomes apparent that no truth is desired.
An image that is neither offended nor bothered to let the devil have the argument.
(Luke 23:9) Herod questioned Jesus at great length, but He gave no answer.
(Mark 15:5) But to Pilate's amazement, Jesus made no further reply.
(Matt 26:62,63) So the high priest stood up and asked Him, “Have You no answer? What are these men testifying against You?” But Jesus remained silent…
(Matt 27:12) And when He was accused by the chief priests and elders, He gave no answer.
(Prov 19:8,9) Mockers inflame a city, but the wise turn away anger. If a wise man has an argument with a fool, the fool only rages and laughs, and there is no quiet.
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