How to Win in a Lost Argument

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How to Win in a Lost Argument

"If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone."1

Let's face it, some people can be very difficult to live with and/or get along with. Some are impossible. However, here's an interesting tip giving one way to resolve a quarrel:

According to Ludwig Bemelmans in The Best of Bits & Pieces, "A book issued by the Army years ago gave all manner of advice to noncommissioned officers. It even tells how to make men who have quarreled become friends again. The men are put to washing the same window, one outside, the other inside. Looking at each other, they soon have to laugh and all is forgotten. It works; I have tried it. "

So the next time you have a quarrel with your spouse, try washing the windows! Admittedly, this would be easier said than done. It is extremely rare for Joy and me to argue over anything but when we do have a difference, neither one of us can rest until we get together, talk it over, apologize where we have been wrong, and put things right.

In a quarrel always aim for a "win-win" outcome.

Suggested prayer: "Dear God, whenever I am in an argument please help me to know what to say and what not to say. When I am in the wrong, help me to be humble enough to admit it, apologize, and make things right. And if perchance, I am not in the wrong, help me to be humble enough not to rub in 'my rightness,' and gracious enough to forgive the one who has hurt me as you so freely forgive me whenever I sin and do wrong. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer. Gratefully in Jesus' name, amen."

1. Romans 12: 18 (NIV).
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