An Argumentative Attitude Deadlocks Communications

Difficulties with communication may evolve into a communications impasse if an argumentative attitude exists. Such a mindset attempts to disqualify a person’s beliefs, values, and ideas. This does not mean that debate should be avoided, but in its worst form debate’s objective is to discredit not only the person but their character.

Individuals deadlocked in a communications impasse must ask themselves this question: What is the payoff for me and my relationships if I maintain an argumentative attitude? One consequence is losing trust and intimacy, which leaves individuals isolated in a position of facing the future all alone.

It takes patience to inaugurate a different style of communication. A critical first step in dislodging an argumentative attitude is being willing to acknowledge the other person's point of view. Ask God for patience and wisdom to help you gain understanding. Then be resolute in applying what  you receive from the Lord God to your situation.  

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Your speech should always be gracious and sprinkled with insight so that you may know how to respond to every person.

~Colossians 4:6 Common English Bible

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The Power of Patience: Taming the Temper - Part 1

During holidays and other special family gatherings, a quick temper can devastate the joyful spirit of family unity. Individuals and relationships suffer when tempers flare out of control. Lack of respect and trust diminishes for those who are quick to anger, and their attendance becomes undesirable. Personal safety may also become an issue.

A quick tempered person usually possesses a fragile ego-strength or ego-boundaries. A quick temper reflects a fear of loss of control over a situation, over another person, or within oneself. A quick temper is an effort to hide low self-esteem. A quick tempered person never acquires the control, love, or respect he or she desires.

Listen to Proverbs 15:18. "A hot tempered man stirs up dissension, but a patient man calms a quarrel." You can control your temper by permitting God to empower you with patience. This is possible when you receive this gift, a fruit of the Spirit. The power of patience makes you acceptable and lovable. With God, all things are possible.