Section 4
two negative things mentioned by Paul. For bearance is also opposed to murmurings and reasonings. Some saints are given to the pursuit of rivalry and vainglory, whereas others are given to murmurings and reasonings. Whenever we have rivalry, vainglory, murmurings, and reason ings, there is no calm, no tranquillity, no forbear ance.
From my experience I have learned that the first aspect of a life which lives Christ is tran quillity. If we live Christ, we shall not argue with others. We shall know what is the right time to speak even a calm word. Even a calm state ment made at the wrong time can contribute to an argument. If you reply as soon as someone offends you, your word will not be one of for bearance. If someone is angry with you, it is best not to say anything. Exercise forbearance and wait for the right time to utter a calm word. It is especially important for married brothers and sisters to practice this. If your husband or wife is argumentative, be careful about the way you speak. It may be wise not even to call on the Lord aloud. Such a calling may stir up trouble. Instead of speaking outwardly, calm yourself, call on the Lord inwardly, and wait until the situation is tranquil before you say anything.