And there arose a sharp disagreement, so that they separated from each other. Barnabas took Mark with him and sailed away to Cyprus, but Paul chose Silas and departed, having been commended by the brothers to the grace of the Lord.
Acts 15:39-40

The Apostles Barnabas and Paul were close friends. They had worked together for several years, traveled together and faced hardships including death threats and attempts on their lives. When they got back, together they endured unexpected opposition from among the same churches that had sent them out.

But now a difference of opinion arose between these two men of God. As they made plans for a second trip, Barnabas wanted to take his nephew Mark along but Paul wouldn’t have it. Mark had abandoned them on the first trip, just as things were getting difficult. Paul thought he might a liability and could even put himself and others in danger, if he couldn’t be counted on; Barnabas wanted to give him a second chance. Neither one would budge, and the disagreement became so sharp that they finally agreed to separate, each one going his own way.

Sometimes we disagree with people that we love. That’s okay, if we can keep a godly attitude as we disagree. When the disagreement is rooted in pride, arrogance or selfish attitudes, we need to repent. But sometimes the motives of both parties are pure and sincere; it’s just a difference of opinion.

If we can approach differences of opinion with a humble and godly attitude, God is able to turn them into good. Years later, Paul would write to Timothy, “Get Mark and bring him with you, for he is very useful to me for ministry.” (2 Timothy 4:11)

Lord, help me to keep a humble heart of faith when other people disagree with my ideas. Keep me aware that You are the one calling the shots, and I can rest in You. Amen.

Pastor Dan Giles