About the Author

Jennifer Dukes Lee is the author of several books, including Growing Slow. She and her husband live on the family farm, raising crops, pigs, and two humans. She’s a fan of dark chocolate, emojis, eighties music, bright lipstick, and Netflix binges. She wants to live life in such a way...

(in)side DaySpring: things we love
& you will too!
Find more at DaySpring.com
(in)side DaySpring:
things we love
& you will too!
Find more at
DaySpring.com
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Comments

  1. Amen! “We can listen without agreeing”. Listening for agreement in a way isn’t really hearing the other person it’s more about finding the rubber stamp for our own opinions. Lord makes us truly hear one another so we might be fully equipped to minister to each other’s needs & celebrate each other’s victories! Blessings! Thank you for setting a beautiful example!

  2. I wish more people could read this, hear this message. Throughout our 40+ year marriage, my husband and I were often at odds in so many ways- from food, to sports teams to politics, etc. And yes, discussions did become heated at times. But sometimes those differences were a learning opportunity. Hard as it is at times, we need to listen more and try to understand. My problem these days is I find there is so much anger, that folks are unwilling to do just that. While my dearest friend of over 30 years and I still manage to enjoy each others company, I walk on eggs shells around her these days. I find it is just easier to change the subject or not respond when certain topics arise. I don’t like it, but I do this to maintain the friendship because there are so many good things about her- she is generous, kind, has a good sense of humor, loves the outdoors. So at the end of the day, I celebrate what we have in common and that I have that friend to sit at the table with me.

    • Love your response…The Lord will bless your love and tolerance dear sister as His Grace blesses YOU .✝️⚓️

    • Madeline, your heart is beautiful! I feel the hatred too. I’m so hopeful that God will allow Come Sit with Me to get into LOTS of hands and hearts so we can all learn to really see, hear, and love one another well.

  3. Such a beautiful commentary about loving each other despite our differences. God gave us all free will and we are all different so we won’t all agree all the time. Thank you for this message.

  4. Beautifully written and apropos! We were once in a house divided but realized that our relationship and love was never based on our political beliefs. And as time goes by we are both understanding and our beliefs and feelings in most areas are the same which at one time we were polar opposites. The tension is gone and we are able to converse and even laugh at some of the issues, together.
    We are all created by the same creator, so make it a point To get out, reach out and spread the good word and live like Jesus is walking next to you.

  5. It’s like this devotional was written with me in mind! A little over 3 years ago at a friends wedding I was convicted by the priest’s words, “We’re not meant to do life alone.” I had that same feeling reading these words today. I spoke unkind words over my relationship. It was in an anxious, frustrating moment. We have been apart for months now. I know I need to speak up or the gap between us will continue to widen. I’ve been afraid to say anything, because it might be the wrong thing. The fear of not speaking, and this idea of sitting at “a table for one”, doesn’t align with the desire God put in my heart all those years ago. God continues to speak to me about how best to move forward. Today’s devotional was just another affirmation that I cannot sit, paralyzed in fear. Thank you.

    • Angela, I love that this was so timely for you! Yes, we were not made to stay at a table of one. Praying for you today as you seek to take those uncomfortable steps toward reconciliation and love.

  6. Loved this! The pastors of my church have written a book called “Truth over Tribe”.
    We all need to hear each other, does not mean we have to agree but we need to listen and remember to put God above all else! Check out there book

  7. This message was REALLY, REALLY good. Thank you for posting something that all of us need.

  8. I love this! We can still connect even when we don’t agree. And we can be honest about our own thoughts – we don’t need to hide them thinking that that somehow makes it easier for others. The tension is messy and not what any of us would probably choose, but you’re right that if we have to wait to completely agree, we’ll end up by ourselves. This does work best though if both parties value the relationship over their need to be right. Thank you, Jennifer.

  9. This really hit the target in the middle for me. Bullseye! My sister and I agree to disagree on many subjects…but we still love each other. It’s not easy, but we still can love each other without having to agree on everything. Great article today. Thank you.

  10. Thank you for this. I continue to struggle over a lost friendship, which seemed to be coming back. I honestly don’t know anymore and it’s so hurtful that I can’t explain it. I needed to read this.

  11. Oh my goodness Jennifer I can soooo relate to your post today… “I know how uncomfortable it is. Every election cycle, every news story, and every political event has the potential to set off fireworks in my own home—and not the pretty kind but the explosive, cover-your-ears-and-run-for-cover kind”!!!!! My husband and I disagree on this subject more than anything. I’ve learned I can listen without agreeing or responding. I can also remember what my pastor’s wife shares all the time…”don’t say it pray it”
    I don’t want be at a table for one and neither does my husband. I am so grateful maturity along with God’s wisdom has calmed this storm most of the time.
    “Let there be peace on earth, and let it begin with me.” My husband….He is God’s responsibility

  12. Something to definitely Think About, as our already Politicized Society gets turned even higher, with the November Midterm Elections less than a month away!

    Let Love lead the way always, with Jesus Help!

  13. Jennifer,

    We were not meant to do this life alone. The Lord said it is not good for man to be alone Genesis 2:18. He expects us to be in communion with each other just like the early church in Acts. We all have varying opinions on each & every subject. The best we can do is agree to disagree & if necessary change the subject. Friendships & love are more important than doctrinal, political or other differences. I’m giving a big yes to come sit with me. Let me learn about, listen-really listen to you & offer a hearty hug in the end.

    Blessings 🙂