Together in Christ: 'The High Road of Avoidance' — Proverbs 20:3

Sunday, March 16, 2025

Avoiding a fight is a mark of honor; only fools insist on quarreling.

Key Thought

A wise mentor once told me, "Take the high road in this mess!" He meant, "Phil, you can try to win this battle and start a war that will ensure you both are less than what God wants. In the process, you end up ruining your hearts and each other's character!"

The Holy Spirit reminds us in this proverb that the victor in a fight is not the one who wins the fight but the one who prevents it. The grind of daily life wears us down, the control of our emotions wears thin, our hearts grow weary, and the devil baits us into an ugly argument that never should have happened. In the process, the evil one gets what he wants - friendships broken, hearts wounded, and reputations ruined, and nothing good is accomplished. As Jesus taught,

"You have heard the law that says, 'Love your neighbor' and hate your enemy. But I say, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you! ... If you love only those who love you, what reward is there for that? Even corrupt tax collectors do that much. If you are kind only to your friends, how are you different from anyone else? Even pagans do that. But you are to be perfect, even as your Father in heaven is perfect." [1]
The apostle Paul echoed Jesus' teaching:

Never pay back evil with more evil. Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honorable. Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone. [2]

Today's Prayer

Loving Father, I ask that the Holy Spirit recalibrate my heart to live in tune with the way of Jesus. I pray for help to know how to avoid a fight, prevent a war, and sidestep a foolish argument while still standing strong for You, and for Your goodness, godliness, and justice. I ask this in the precious and powerful name of Jesus. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

  • Romans 12:1-2, 12-21
  • Matthew 5:3-12

Have thoughts on this devotional? Leave a comment

Illustration

Illustration of Proverbs 20:3 NLT — Avoiding a fight is a mark of honor; only fools insist on quarreling.

Other Devotionals from Heartlight for Sunday, March 16, 2025

A one-year devotional guide through the book of Acts.
"When the church at Jerusalem heard what had happened [with the spread of the Good News to both Jews and Gentiles], they sent Barnabas to Antioch...."
A daily devotional about the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives.
"So I say, let the Holy Spirit guide your lives. Then you won't be doing what your sinful nature craves."
A daily passage of Scripture emphasizing praise to our God.
"The Lord is my light and my salvation — so why should I be afraid? The Lord is my fortress, protecting me from danger, so why should I tremble?"
A daily devotional featuring wise counsel found in Scripture.
"Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it."

About This Devotional

Together in Christ is a daily devotional that focuses on what Scripture teaches about godly living in relationships.

'Together in Christ' is written by Phil Ware.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.