Opinions.  We all have opinions.  Being opinionated isn’t the same as being right.

Opinions aren’t right or wrong. They are not facts. Yet, we argue to get others to agree with our opinion.  Having a strong opinion doesn’t make it right. Opinions are based off of our perceptions. We are easily offended when our opinions are questioned or debated.  But why, when our opinions are based off of our experiences in life and what we believe to be true.  Your opinion will not change until you first change what you believe. 

It is so easy to feel frustrated and walk off in judgement because others don’t see things the same way we do.  Our culture says if you do not agree then you are enemies. The art of communication has been lost. We tend to feel as though we are wrong in our opinion, as if an opinion could actually be wrong.   

How many times have you experienced an argument over an opinion?

As I was reading in 1 Corinthians, I came across the phrase “how easily do we get puffed up over our opinions.”  Paul was addressing and trying to correct their way of thinking.  Who cares if others hold the same opinion as you.  Forcing your opinion, or your revelation, on them will only make them do something they are uncomfortable doing.  Paul goes further to say that if you cause them to go against their conscience, you put a stumbling block before them.   And when we offend someone by wounding their conscience in this manner, we have also offended the Lord.

So many memories came rushing back of times when I felt as though my opinions didn’t matter, or that my opinions were just wrong.  I have walked away from so many situations or people because I felt I couldn’t think differently than them without being judged or considered wrong.  Those feelings have put up so many walls within myself that stunted friendships from growing.  Deep down all I wanted was to be accepted for being myself while given room to grow.

When I stand so strong in my opinions, I leave no room for growth.

When my opinions are portrayed as fact and not an opinion, there is no room for growth. Others will be intimated by me and not challenge my way of thinking. I will not learn new things or see from another’s perspective. I want to be sensitive to other’s opinions and why they feel a certain way causing growth in my relationship with the Lord and others. Discernment is the key.

Lord, give us the grace to love people right where they at. Help us to mature in ways that while we yet have opinions and convictions, we don’t force them on others!

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