Daily Bible Challenge: Day 598 Psalms Chapter 120

The first verse that jumped out at me in this chapter is when the psalmist says, “I love peace, but they are for war. No matter what I say, they want war.”

Jesus said in Matthew 5:9 “Blessed are the peacemakers for they will be called children of God.”

There are PEACEMAKERS and there are ARGUERS (or Fighters or Instigators). Each has a different mindset or thought process.

PEACEMAKERS are careful not to get caught up in heated debate that are stirred on by evil. They have the self-discipline to be quiet when things start to get heated up. They've learned that silence can put an end to a fight. It can even cause someone to feel guilty for their wrongdoing.

Romans 12:8 says, “If it is possible, as far as it it depends upon you, live at peace with everyone.”

I read this verse because once in a great while you have someone who's going to push the limit because their whole goal is a fight and it may not be possible to walk away. So there may be times when self-defense is necessary or getting the law involved. But generally speaking, the one who can tame their mouth and keep quiet in heated moments can prevent a war. Proverbs 21:23 says, “Whoever keeps their mouth and tongue quiet keeps themselves out of trouble.”

An ARGUER/FIGHTER/AGITATOR seem to be unhappy people. They like to be in control and display power and authority over others, including over authority figures. They tend to be irrational and argue. Rather than be rational and use common sense they use degrading words and swear. They think the louder they are the more right they are.

That's a hostile noticeable extreme but some are sneaky and quiet about it. They lie behind your back and spread rumors. They gossip. They are selfish and deceive others for personal gain. They are no fun to be around. They cause division.

You can try and engage into a normal conversation with them and they might be open to your words, but they may not. Learning to stand your ground with confidence is important but having the discernment on went to love in humility is wise.

The thing we need to avoid is not letting their behavior pull us down to their behavior so you end up doing the same thing they are.

Blessings to you ALL!