Foolish Arguments

2 TIMOTHY 2:14-26

verse 23-24 Don’t have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels. And the Lord’s servant must not quarrel;


I recently talked my son into a trap and when done he looked at me with such confusion. I would like to blame this one on my pastor also. By the way, it is Pastor Appreciation Month. Let your pastor know how much you appreciate his dedicated work. Back to the story. My pastor had previously plugged into one of his wonderful sermons that he can’t stand to hear a parent argue with their children. Whatever the parent says should be a done deal, no arguments. That definitely caught my attention because every conversation with my oldest child seemed to end in argument. I couldn’t wait to pull that one over on him, I mean discuss that one with him.

It wasn’t long before I had the opportunity. My wonderful but outspoken son felt the need to voice his strong opinion on an issue. I said, “No.” That should have been it. He didn’t think so. I found myself falling into the same routine of arguing then I stopped myself. The conversation took a turn and went something like this.

“Son, the pastor said something recently. He said a parent should never argue with their children.” I said.

He looked at me with astonishment. Then puffed his chest and with what he thought was the backing of his pastor said, “That’s right so give me….”

I interrupted, “So, the next time I say no you shut up. No arguments, no more discussion, no buts. It’s over. Understand?”

Oh the look he gave me! It was all I could do to not crack a smile. I had to keep it together. He thought for sure he had one over on me. At first he was confused. Then surprised. Then he realized what just happened. And as much as my son talks and loves to talk, he was actually speechless.

Read all of today’s scripture. Realize how important it is not to argue, to not throw words around. It’s not a choice. The Word of God says the Lord’s servant must not quarrel. Parents, you will save yourselves many headaches and earaches by living out this scripture. Show your children the scripture. Don’t make them think you are just trying to be a bully. Help them understand the foolishness of arguing as a child and as an adult. Show them that by holding their tongue they are obeying God. What an awesome gift to pass down the Word of God to our children. God Bless~