Debate-why do I do it?

It's ridiculous that I have so much to say and share and yet I don't know what to sit down and blog about. Then something hits me, and I have to write it all before I forget.

My personality type (infp-introverted intuitive feeling perceiving) does not like conflict. I can attest to this being true. I would rather avoid arguments, yelling, and violence at all cost than experience or inflict it on others. Many of you know I'm part of a speech and debate league so you might be wondering, how I can enjoy and participate in debates. Isn't the whole point arguing?

First a clarification, formal forensic debate is very different from arguing. What we tend to consider "arguing/arguments" usually aren't real arguments, it's bickering. Formal arguments are logical, structured, easy to follow, and usually don't involve raising your voice.
Second, formal debate isn't spurned by anger. You speak with a clear mind rather than say something illogical or hurtful in the emotion of the moment. And whether you may or may not be emotionally invested in your argument, you can still speak with passion.
Thirdly, and most importantly, I value truth over relativity and lies. I would contend the truth rather than sit back and let the falsity roll free. That is why I love debating and why I will argue with people. Not argue in a bickering way, but argue with logic and integrity. I don't argue to win or triumph over another, no. I argue for a much more important reason, I argue that truth may be upheld and will not be beaten down by lies and inconsistency. I argue that others may begin to see that truth and how it stands firm. I may dislike conflict, but I dislike truth being shot and trampled without any support for crazy claims even more. And upholding truth is more important than being peace-loving.

1. How can anyone be peace-loving or achieve peace, if everyone is at war with each other because of their different values and different interpretations of peace and truth?
2. There are consequences for not upholding truth. Earthly consequences and eternal consequences. I fear the consequences more than I fear going outside my comfort zone.

Ultimately, this is why I debate, that I may defend truth whenever it comes into question.

"But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. “Do not fear their threats; do not be frightened.” But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander." 1 Peter 3:14-16

"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people. Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may declare it fearlessly, as I should." Ephesians 6:10-20