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

Proverbs‬ ‭20‬:‭3‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Today (November 9, 2022) is the day after the 2022 midterm elections, and although I’m writing this the day before, I’m sure that today’s social media channels are filled with a lot of quarreling. “My candidate deserved to win, but votes were stolen.” ”Your candidate’s supporters are all idiots, so it’s no wonder she won.” “Your party is full of racists who don’t care about a woman’s right to healthcare.” “Oh, yeah? Your party is full of baby-killers who don’t know what gender they are!”

The results of this election are critical; I’m not sure if I remember a midterm election during my lifetime that has demonstrated the division in this country more that this one. As my wise spouse put it, “we’re in a cold civil war”. It can either be fanned into destructive flames by hotheaded, angry people on both sides, or eased into détente by rational leaders (if there are such people these days…) who are willing to negotiate, compromise, and do what is truly best for the country.

This wisdom from Proverbs is timeless. Although the temptation to argue with another person who voted “the wrong way” is strong — whether in person or with the false shield of social media protecting you — don’t do it! You’ll take the more honorable path by refusing to attack others and by not taking the bait when someone taunts your political beliefs.

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