Why in the absence of a great dream, pettiness prevails.

Pettiness, in addition to dealing damage in our relationships, is a symptom of our humanity. We have a propensity towards pettiness because of our self-interest, and we must recognize that we cannot completely eliminate the temptation to strike back when we feel wronged. However, in Ephesians 4, Paul reminds us that there is something greater to desire than what pettiness can give us, and that is new life through Christ. If our aim is no higher than to put on the appearance of spirituality, then we can sit still and give in to our defaults. But if our aim is to live fully for Christ and experience the love, trust, and joy of relationship with Him, then we must surrender the old ways of pettiness and allow the work of God to transform us.