I try not to build myself up by tearing others down – for two reasons.  First, I have learned that it isn’t necessary.  I don’t need to knock someone else down to build myself up.  I can build myself up without doing that.  Second, it usually comes back to bite me in the end!  Sensible people see it as being insecure.  So I try to remain practical and see this insecurity and really try to forgive and forget.  And I keep praying to God for an understanding spirit!

Discord is often created and the work of God hindered when we are impatient, defensive, self-assertive, judgmental, and unkind in speech.  Life is full of these situations and experiences.  Instead, we should remember that God, the great mediator, is present – if we ask him to be.  Matthew 18:20 says, “Where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I in the midst of them.”

When has doing away with discord made a difference in your life?  I would love to hear your story.