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Being Right vs. Doing Right

Devotional for Thursday, March 11, 2010

Fools make fun of guilt, but the godly acknowledge it and seek reconciliation

– Proverbs 14:9

If my case were tried in a court of law, no doubt I would win. There would be mounting evidence against the offending party. Friends and family would gather in my defense to testify of wrongs committed against me. I would take the stand and tearfully recount detailed incidents that wounded me. The judge would rule in my favor and award damages for the undeserved pain in my life. Everyone would finally know I was right.

Hurt and angry, I have imagined a similar scenario regarding conflict. The ugly truth is stubborn insistence to prove my point and be seen as the victor in a battle became more important than operating in the Spirit and seeking reconciliation. Pride drove me to argue my defense, but this did not impressed God nor changed His truths. Romans 12:17-20 became especially clear to me on the issue and outlined my responsibility:

  • No matter how badly I have been treated God does not give me permission to behave likewise (v.17).
  • Choose to be honorable and remember I represent Christ (v.17).
  • Resolution is not always possible because the other party may not desire the same thing. Even so, I am accountable to confess what part my sin has played in the conflict and have a clean heart before the Lord (v.18).
  • It’s not my place to take actions into my own hands (v.19).
  • Kindness goes a long way and might make the difference in the long run (v.20).

Unresolved differences in a friendship? Strain with a family member? No matter what the root of the issue is, my human nature fights hard to be the one who “wins”, looking the best in the sight of the spectators who watch the conflict. But in God’s eyes, there is a vast difference in being right and doing right.

Prayer:

It’s not easy, Heavenly Father, to swallow my pride and accept responsibility. Won’t others see me as weak? Flawed? My focus is to stay on the ministry of reconciliation. I stand without excuse. Forgive me, Lord, for blaming others for my responses. Thank You for giving me chances to be a restorer and not a destroyer. Your grace is enough. In Your name I commit this now. Amen.

Further Reading: Proverbs 13: 10 and 20:22, II Corinthians 5:18-21, I Thessalonians 5:15

Beth Harris