One day he wrote “Opinions are the lowest commodity we have!” I had to stop and think what a commodity was—Commodity: something that is of value or worth. Hum, he was right.
In the court of public opinion, Jesus was thought to be a lush and a glutton. There was no truth in this at all, but it just goes to show how dangerous opinions can be. When we think about it, what are stereotypes other than opinions?
Lately, I’ve been working on keeping my opinion to myself when not asked for or if I don’t agree in general with someone. Why? It keeps me out of trouble. Voicing our opinions can cause conflict. We can be offensive (even if we don’t mean to be) condescending, and come off as a know-it-all. “And for what” I ask? Is it worth offending or wounding another just to get our point across? Of course not! So, why bother putting it out there? I love how the Message translation of the Bible puts Romans 14:1…[Cultivating Good Relationships] Welcome with open arms fellow believers who don’t see things the way you do. And don’t jump all over them every time they do or say something you don’t agree with—even when it seems that they are strong on opinions but weak in the faith department. Remember, they have their own history to deal with. Treat them gently.
My youngest daughter will often call to ask my opinion about things. Of course I love this because it means she still values my input at times. I say at times, because let me start giving it when not asked for or wanted and it is a different story. Moms, I know you understand what I’m talking about. ~Smile~ Now, if it has to do with clothing, makeup, jewelry, boys or spending money, I will give my opinion. But when it has to do with life changing decisions, I have to give her godly advice based on what the Word of God has to say. I do this because she has to work it out on her own, but I give her the best information I can—a reminder of who she lives for and her need to seek and please Him. In times like these, my opinion or anyone else’s is the last thing she needs.
Having to interact constantly with someone who always has an opinion becomes tiresome. It can cause you to stop sharing and turn a deaf ear to what they have to say. I know it does for me. When we move into the know-it-all phase of life, and have opinions about everything, pride is often the motivating factor. Why is it then so many of us feel the need to voice our opinions on Facebook on other people’s statuses—especially when we disagree? The truth is—everyone has an opinion so what makes ours more profound or greater than anyone else? Nothing really! When we think about it, what great purpose does an unwanted opinion accomplish, other than fulfilling some misguided need we have within ourselves?
As daughters of the King we should be more purposeful in helping others (not with our opinions) but with godly advice when needed. But even then we should do it in love and gentleness.
Sisters, if being opinionated is your style, maybe it’s time for a change in the way you talk to people. Change is good…it is a valuable part of growth. This is what our Christian walk is all about—striving to look more and more like the Messiah. He never steamrolled anyone—why should we?
If I were to write a proverb, it would go something like this…Godly advice should always be welcomed, but opinions most often should be left unspoken. Amen!
See you next week and be blessed!!
Love & Hugs
Ponnie
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