Reading Plan:
Acts 15


Our Thoughts:
Disagreements can be hard and can lead us to make decisions that we would otherwise never consider making. I grew up in a small church that had been a big part of my family for decades. When I got married, my husband and I continued to go to this church along with all my sisters and their families. Eventually, there was a disagreement that led me and my family to move to a different church. This was a decision that definitely would not have happened had it not been for a difference of opinions. As hard as it was in the moment, to leave family and everything familiar, I can confidently say that disagreement was the best source of direction for our lives. God knew we would never leave on our own because there was no obvious reason. We were happy. We were comfortable. Looking back, I can see where He used several disagreements over the course of my life to ensure that I would end up right where He wanted me. For that, I am extremely grateful.

In Acts 15, we see an example of how a disagreement shaped the course of history. The disagreement between Paul and Barnabas, as well as the ongoing dispute of an accurate belief system, resulted in advancing the kingdom of God more than we could have ever imagined. How did this happen? Before the argument, you have two men on one team going to one place. After the argument is over, you have four men on two teams going to two different places.

In hindsight, it is easy to see how this disagreement led to the Gospel being spread by more people in more places than ever before. That happened as a result of an uncomfortable, sharp, and strong personal disagreement.

If we look closely at the beginning of the chapter where the disagreement originated, we discover that the solution was for Paul and Barnabas to go to Jerusalem to seek the wise counsel of the apostles and elders. We also see that those who were in a position to provide counsel listened to both opposing viewpoints on the matter. Finally, we are reminded by Peter that God knows our hearts. If we take these three things into account, I believe we can learn how to respond to disagreements with respect and honor. Seek the wise counsel of God first and then, godly people who He has placed in your path. Listen to what the other person is truly saying, and remember God knows your heart. He will overcome and use what may have been intended for evil for good…Every. Single. Time.


Other Questions:
How has God used a past disagreement in your life to bless you?
What sort of unhealthy emotions do you have to overcome when you are in a disagreement?


Prayer:
Lord, I pray that you help me to honor you when I am in a disagreement with others. Remind me there are two sides to every story and help me to listen well.


Author: Angie Gates