"Now Eliab his oldest brother heard when he spoke to the men; and Eliab's anger was aroused against David, and he said, 'Why did you come down here? And with whom did you leave those few sheep in the wilderness? I know your pride and the insolence of your heart, for you have come down to see the battle.' And David said, 'What have I done now? Is there not a cause?' "
I Samuel 17:28-29
It's tough when people misunderstand your motives and question your integrity. When other people – even family members – feel that you are attacking them personally, they get angry and respond from their emotions. Eliab attacked David's personal worth ("few sheep in the wilderness") and his integrity ("insolence and pride"). David's response is interesting. He did not attack back – "You guys are too chicken to fight Goliath." Instead, he answered by questions: "Now what did I do?" (He had probably been put down before by his brothers), and "Don't you know the reason I'm here is that Father sent me?" (appealing to the rational rather than the emotional). How I react to misunderstanding and questioning of my motives is very important. How I respond can either calm or inflame the situation.
Today's Thought: When I am misunderstood and my motives attacked, I should not attack back.
Have an "understanding" day. Love you.
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