SAINT ROBERT BELLARMINE, BISHOP AND DOCTOR OF THE CHURCH (OPTIONAL MEMORIAL)

. . . a morbid disposition for arguments and verbal disputes. 

You don’t have to look very far to find what St. Paul is talking about. Unhealthy interest in arguments? Verbal disputes that lead to rivalry and insults? That could describe a lot of what you see in the news or on social media. Even closer to home, we can see friction that comes from suspicion or envy in our neighborhoods and families. It seems that everywhere we go, there are situations that can drag us into negativity.

But it doesn’t have to be that way. As St. Paul exhorted his young friend Timothy, we can “avoid all this” (1 Timothy 6:11). We don’t have to give in to the negative influences that surround us or the harmful tendencies within us. We can make things better both in our own lives and for the people around us.

How? By following Jesus’ example. He never engaged in pointless argumentation. Even when he disagreed with people, his goal was to reveal the merciful heart of his heavenly Father. So when you face conflict, look to him so that you can receive the love he has for you and for the people you disagree with. Stay close to him; let his holiness help sweep aside any unhealthy rivalry or irritation that might have a hold on you.

Then you can take that uplifted attitude with you when you are interacting with other people. With your eyes fixed on Christ, you can find the grace to be positive and encouraging, even when you’re talking to people you disagree with. You can show them the loving and merciful heart of God and bring Jesus’ light into a distrustful or emotionally charged situation. It’s not always easy, and it takes some practice, but you might be surprised to see how you can diffuse some of the negative things that St. Paul describes today.

You are a child of God, and he rejoices in helping you pursue righteousness. He loves it when you bring the light of his presence wherever you go.

“Lord, help me put aside useless argumentation. I want to bring your presence with me wherever I go today.”

Psalm 49:6-10, 17-20
Luke 8:1-3
1 Timothy 6:2-12

WORD AMONG US