In the Bible, strife refers to conflict, contention, or disagreement among individuals, often resulting in discord and struggle. It is frequently portrayed as a consequence of pride and lack of wisdom, as seen in Proverbs 13:10, which states, “Where there is strife, there is pride, but wisdom is found in those who take advice.”
Scripture
14 The beginning of strife is like letting out water, so quit before the quarrel breaks out.
15 He who justifies the wicked and he who condemns the righteous are both alike an abomination to the Lord.
16 Why should a fool have money in his hand to buy wisdom when he has no sense?
17 A friend loves at all times,
and a brother is born for adversity.
18 One who lacks sense gives a pledge
and puts up security in the presence of his neighbor.
19 Whoever loves transgression loves strife; he who makes his door high seeks destruction.
Strife Defined in the Bible
In the biblical narrative, strife serves as both a social and spiritual challenge, often highlighting the fragility of human relationships. Proverbs 10:12 underscores this by noting, “Hatred stirs up strife, but love covers all offenses.” Here, the stark juxtaposition of love and hatred illustrates how underlying emotions can catalyze conflict, leading to a discord that can fracture communities and families. Strife is not merely an interpersonal issue; it reflects a broader spiritual condition that can arise when individuals prioritize ego and adversarial perspectives over humility and understanding.
Moreover, the scriptures showcase the consequences of strife, illustrating how it can lead to division and destruction within the community of believers. James 4:1 asks, “What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from your desires that battle within you?” This verse emphasizes that internal desires and unchecked ambitions can spill over into external conflict, perpetuating a cycle of strife that hinders reconciliation and peace. The Bible consistently exhorts followers to seek unity and harmony, as seen in Philippians 2:2, which calls for believers to be “like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind.” Ultimately, the biblical perspective on strife invites a reflection on the necessity of humility, wisdom, and love in navigating the complexities of human relationships while striving for peace and understanding.
Strife, as presented in various biblical texts, serves as a reminder of the human propensity for conflict rooted in pride and selfishness. The Book of Proverbs frequently addresses the theme of contention, particularly in relation to wise and foolish behavior. For instance, Proverbs draws a connection between the fool and strife, illustrating that those lacking wisdom and discernment often invite quarrels into their lives. Their inability to foster healthy communication often leads to a breakdown in relationships, underscoring the necessity for wisdom in resolving disputes peacefully.
Furthermore, the biblical narrative provides accounts of strife that highlight its detrimental effects on individuals and communities. In the story of Abraham and Lot, strife arises between their herdsmen due to the abundance of livestock and limited land, leading Abraham to propose a peaceful separation to prevent conflict (Genesis 13:8-9). This incident emphasizes the importance of proactive measures in addressing strife. The call for peacemaking becomes evident as believers are reminded of the blessing found in those who seek reconciliation over division. Moreover, in Galatians, Paul admonishes the early church against the acts of the flesh, which include discord and jealousy, stressing the significance of living by the Spirit to cultivate fruits such as love, joy, and peace. By encouraging a Spirit-led life, the scriptures provide a framework for confronting strife with grace and fostering a sense of unity among believers.
The Nature of Strife as Conflict
Strife in the Bible often represents a state of conflict or contention among individuals or groups. This conflict can arise from differing opinions, desires, or ambitions, leading to discord and division. The biblical narrative frequently highlights the consequences of such strife, illustrating how it can disrupt relationships and communities, ultimately distancing individuals from God’s intended harmony.
Strife as a Spiritual Struggle
Beyond interpersonal conflict, strife can also symbolize the internal struggles that believers face in their spiritual lives. This includes the battle between the flesh and the spirit, where individuals grapple with their desires and the call to live according to God’s will. Such strife is often portrayed as a necessary part of spiritual growth, prompting believers to seek divine guidance and strength to overcome their challenges.
The Call to Unity Amid Strife
The Bible encourages believers to seek unity and reconciliation in the face of strife. It emphasizes the importance of love, humility, and forgiveness as antidotes to conflict. This call to unity serves as a reminder that, despite the inevitable strife that may arise, the ultimate goal is to foster peace and understanding, reflecting the character of Christ in relationships with others.
How to Embrace Peace and Unity in Christ
Embracing peace and unity in Christ is a beautiful journey that begins in our hearts and extends to our relationships with others. As we reflect on Ephesians 4:3, which urges us to “make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace,” we can start by cultivating a spirit of humility and understanding in our interactions. This means actively listening to others, valuing their perspectives, and seeking common ground, even when we disagree. Prayer is also a powerful tool; by bringing our concerns and conflicts before God, we invite His peace to guide our hearts and minds. Remember, unity doesn’t mean uniformity; it’s about celebrating our diverse gifts and backgrounds while being anchored in our shared faith in Christ. As we strive to embody His love and grace, we not only foster peace within ourselves but also become beacons of hope and reconciliation in a world that desperately needs it. Let’s take small, intentional steps each day to reflect Christ’s love, and watch how it transforms our communities.
Bible References to Strife and Conflict:
Proverbs 20:3-4: 3 It is an honor for a man to keep aloof from strife,
but every fool will be quarreling.
4 The sluggard does not plow in the autumn;
he will seek at harvest and have nothing.
Proverbs 26:20-21: 20 For lack of wood the fire goes out,
and where there is no whisperer, quarreling ceases.
21 As charcoal to hot embers and wood to fire, so is a quarrelsome man for kindling strife.
Romans 13:12-14: 12 The night is far gone; the day is at hand. So then let us cast off the works of darkness and put on the armor of light.
13 Let us walk properly as in the daytime, not in orgies and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and sensuality, not in quarreling and jealousy.
14 But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh, to gratify its desires.
1 Corinthians 3:1-3: 3 But I, brothers, could not address you as spiritual people, but as people of the flesh, as infants in Christ.
2 I fed you with milk, not solid food, for you were not ready for it. And even now you are not yet ready,
3 for you are still of the flesh. For while there is jealousy and strife among you, are you not of the flesh and behaving only in a human way?
Galatians 5:19-21: 19 Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality,
20 idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions,
21 envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.
Philippians 2:1-4: 1 So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any comfort from love, any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy,
2 complete my joy by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind.
3 Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.
4 Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.
James 3:13-18: 13 Who is wise and understanding among you? By his good conduct let him show his works in the meekness of wisdom.
14 But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast and be false to the truth.
15 This is not the wisdom that comes down from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic.
16 For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there will be disorder and every vile practice.
17 But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere.
18 And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.
James 4:1-3: 1 What causes quarrels and what causes fights among you? Is it not this, that your passions are at war within you?
2 You desire and do not have, so you murder. You covet and cannot obtain, so you fight and quarrel. You do not have, because you do not ask.
3 You ask and do not receive, because you ask wrongly, to spend it on your passions.
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.