One event that sets the wise apart from the unwise is the time of opposition. If you live by your emotions, you will fail and do things you will regret later. However, if you exercise faith, insist on what is true, and realize certain principles, you will find yourself a winner in the end.
- Silence is often the best response to an opponents statements. By not responding to reckless insults and power-struggle challenges, you reveal to everyone the direction from which the real trouble is coming.
- When in a heated discussion: Keep to the facts, admit mistakes and oversights, and recognize when your opponent is right; then you will have a clear head for the truth and the respect of all who overhear your debate.
- Sometimes you cannot settle matters and compromise is out of the question. When you have reached that point, stop arguing and follow through with what must be done.
- As Jesus taught, treat your opponents with civility: deal politely with them when you see them, never do spiteful deeds or make nasty comments to justify yourself, do not back down from what is right yet always leave the situation unlocked just in case of restoration.
- Trust in the Lord and bring your case to Him. If you are right He will ultimately justify you, if you are wrong He will mercifully let you know; but above all, never develop bitterness. Trust and move on.
