“PALAVER” – Webster defines it as “a long parlay between persons of different levels of culture or sophistication; idle talk; to talk profusely or idly.” You might refer to it as a lot of “hot air” – a long and extended argument that produces a lot more heat than it does light.
I have a friend (who will remain unnamed) who never saw an animated argument he didn’t like. He seems to gravitate to discussions filled with controversy. He likes it when voices raise, conflict ensues, accusations are leveled at one another, people are called names and things are said that wound and hurt others… I mean the guy really seems to enjoy it! He likes it so much he looks for opportunities and issues like that… and he’ll bring them up in a conversation whenever he gets a chance. What really is troubling is that those discussions are often over religious practices, the work of the church, theology, and Biblical studies. I wish he’d stop it!! I’ve told him so… he doesn’t seem to listen! Oh, you know this guy? Not the same guy? Another just like him? Lord, help us!! More than one?!!!
Read a passage from the Bible this morning that addresses this issue (and problem)…
Apostle Paul urged Timothy to “stay in Ephesus so that you can command certain people” not to engage in those kinds of discussions. Here is what he said about them…
“Such things promote controversial speculations rather than advancing God’s work – which is by faith. The goal of this command is love, which comes from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith. Some have departed from these and turned to meaningless talk… they do not know what they are talking about or what they so confidently affirm.” (from 1 Timothy 1.3-7 NIV)
Don’t know about you, but I’m a little edgy about hanging around someone who always wants a good argument! I feel much more at home in a sincere conversation with someone characterized by “love, a pure heart, a good conscience and sincere faith.” I want to talk about the Lord, his provision, Christian living, and the cause of the Gospel in that kind of way, don’t you?! I’m praying for my friend… (and looking for the right opportunity to talk to him lovingly about his problem.) I’M TIRED OF “PALAVER”!
Coffee With The Lord 