DEEPER STILL: Week Twenty-Seven

Connection not Competition

Proverbs 10:11a

“The mouth of the righteous is a well of life.”

Reflections

Have you ever offered a simple observation and found yourself surrounded by opposition and differing opinions? Most people have been given a fully functioning mind—the ability to think, reason, form opinions, and make choices. Naturally, that leads to different conclusions and perspectives. So how do we communicate our differences in a way that strengthens the whole, rather than tearing apart the parts? Each person in the conversation is a “component”—a part of the larger whole of the family or community. It’s part of the nuance of life: differing views are possible, and each person brings something valuable to the table.

Unfortunately, we often want to run from opposition or dig in and fight for our point of view. These moments can easily trigger defensiveness and anger. Words may come out that don’t reflect a desire to understand, but rather reveal a heart that’s simply standing its ground—fighting for the “right to express” our opinion. But what if we looked at those moments of disagreement as opportunities to grow?

“As iron sharpens iron, so a man sharpens the countenance of his friend” (Proverbs 27:17). In this context, it’s not about winning. It’s about sharpening—enhancing the usefulness of each perspective rather than exalting one over the other. This kind of sharpening challenges our thinking and builds our character as we allow different perspectives to stretch us.

Psalm 15:1 asks some important questions for moments of opposition and chaos: “Lord, who may abide in Your tabernacle? Who may dwell in Your holy hill?” As we walk through life and face relational tension or conflict, these questions guide us toward being faithful followers of Christ.

David’s answer gives us clear instructions:
– Walk uprightly, practice righteousness, and speak the truth in your heart (v. 2)
– Avoid gossip, slander, or grudges (v. 3)
– Use discernment and honor those who fear the Lord (v. 4)
– Do not be swayed by bribes (v. 5)

When we respond in these ways, our conversations-even the hard ones—become opportunities to reveal God’s truth and character. We can offer a deeper foundation to others through Scripture, and we can allow their perspectives to challenge our own assumptions. Ultimately, these hard and open conversations can “sharpen” our character as we dig deeper into the truth of God’s Word.

Are you open to being sharpened by those around you? Are you testing your knowledge and convictions against the truth of God’s Word?

Prayer

Lord, please help me sit in this space of listening for understanding and growth. Guide my heart as I measure the various perspectives through the truth of Your Word.