How to Play Fair in the Battlefield

by | Oct 4, 2019 | Home

When I was growing up the kids in the neighborhood would engage in various competitive games and challenges. Something as simple as competitively flipping coins against the wall or playing a physical game of what we called “murder ball” (an intense individual based variation of the American game of football) all came with rules and conditions to keep the competition fair. Now we as kids understood the concept of playing fair in order to minimize confusion and arguments. Obviously, with us being kids there were still the petty arguments and disagreements that came about because we all wanted to win. But what remained in place after each game, competition or even battle for a lack of a better word we still remained friends.

Fast forward to life as an adult and the competition or challenges are still in existence but the battlefield has changed a bit. The dictionary defines battlefield as an area of conflict or disagreement. So, the ability to navigate through conflict or hostility is essential in maintaining peace and keeping one’s composure. There are battles (emotionally and physically) that take place on the job, in school, church or even in our relationships and daily interactions with people that require attention. In addition, there are some battles that are not destined to have a winner or loser but are meant for a more significant purpose. Unfortunately, the purpose gets lost or hidden because “self” wants to be acknowledged first and foremost. We should strive to live and walk in an atmosphere of peace. And this is a process that takes time to understand and carry out (Romans 14:19).

Typically, in a battle there are actions taken to ensure victory is accomplished and everything done is not always fair. Should we even care if a fair battle takes place? There is a popular idiom that states “all’s fair in love and war”. And this can be taken to mean basically a person should do whatever it takes to win and it’s expected to be understood by all those involved. However, when we know what is right why not just do what is right. Simply because this battlefield has made us believe we have to win at all costs. But our existence should be structured in a way to where we want to create a harvest of peace and do what is good for each other (James 3:18). Yes, it’s a nuisance to deal with the negative attitude(s) or actions of those on the job, businesses we seek service from, or even in our homes. Does that mean we still cannot deal with these circumstances in a positive manner?

King Saul according to the Bible was originally pleased with David but later found displeasure in him due to his jealousy of David’s ascension and growth as a man. David chose to live with peace and respect within himself by not seeking to engage with Saul in the battlefield of jealousy and resentment. If for example, you have a coworker that does not speak to you for no apparent reason but speaks to others that can grow from a seed of annoyance to a large battlefield of resentment. The question that comes forth is what do I do in the present moment? If we desire peace in our inner and outer space, then how we proceed within the battlefield of life is a key component that shapes the outcome (Psalm 18:39). David had natural strength and courage but his use of the Spirit of love and power was crucial in overcoming those around him on the battlefield. For each of us seeking peace or some other positive aftereffect and going against our fleshly instincts is the initial step in creating fairness on the battlefield. And from there our willingness to seek after spiritual guidance or grow a greater positive understanding while being considerate of the thoughts of others will certainly strengthen the core foundation within our inner man.