Strife can create distance between us and others, and even from God. The Bible offers wisdom on how to deal with conflict in a Christ-like manner. Let’s explore some key verses that provide guidance and help us seek peace and understanding in challenging times.
Bible Verses About Strife
Proverbs 15:18
“A hot-tempered person stirs up conflict, but the one who is patient calms a quarrel.”
Proverbs 15:18 highlights the consequences of losing one’s temper. In my own life, I’ve seen how a quick temper can escalate minor disagreements into major conflicts.
This verse teaches us that patience is a powerful tool for maintaining peace. When we choose patience over anger, we create an environment where understanding can flourish. It’s not always easy, but taking a deep breath and responding calmly can defuse many tense situations. Reflecting on this verse can help us strive for calmness in our daily interactions.
Proverbs 16:28
“A perverse person stirs up conflict, and a gossip separates close friends.”
This verse tells us that a corrupt individual who spreads rumors can cause significant strife. I remember a time when gossip in my workplace created unnecessary tension and divided colleagues who had once been close.
This Bible verse warns us about the destructive power of gossip and slander. It serves as a reminder to speak the truth and foster unity. By choosing our words wisely, we can either bring people together or drive them apart. Let this verse encourage us to build each other up rather than tear down relationships.
Romans 12:18
“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”
Romans 12:18 emphasizes the importance of making an effort to live peacefully with others. There have been times when apologizing or compromising has mended strained relationships in my life.
This verse urges us to do whatever is within our control to maintain peace. It acknowledges that sometimes it might be out of our hands, but we should do our best to contribute to harmony. Embracing this teaching helps cultivate a more loving and peaceful community.
James 4:1
“What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from your desires that battle within you?”
James 4:1 delves into the root causes of strife: our internal desires. I recall times when my own envy or selfish ambitions led to unnecessary arguments.
Understanding that our inner struggles often manifest as external conflicts can help us address strife at its source. By aligning our desires with God’s will, we can reduce personal conflicts and enhance our relationships with others. This verse teaches introspection and personal responsibility in overcoming strife.
Proverbs 26:21
“As charcoal to embers and as wood to fire, so is a quarrelsome person for kindling strife.”
This verse vividly compares a contentious person to fuel that ignites conflict. I’ve seen how one quarrelsome individual can turn a peaceful group into a battleground.
Proverbs 26:21 highlights the impact a single contentious person can have on a group. It serves as a caution to avoid adopting a confrontational attitude. Instead, we should strive to be peacemakers who diffuse tension rather than ignite it. Reflecting on this verse reminds us to be mindful of our behavior and its potential to either foster peace or provoke strife.
Matthew 5:9
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”
Jesus commends those who actively work to create peace. In my church community, peacemakers often stand out for their ability to resolve conflicts gracefully.
Matthew 5:9 offers a powerful promise for those who pursue peace. By promoting understanding and reconciliation, peacemakers reflect God’s character and are acknowledged as His children. This verse inspires us to be instruments of peace in our families, workplaces, and communities, mirroring the peace and love of God to the world.
Proverbs 17:14
“Starting a quarrel is like breaching a dam; so drop the matter before a dispute breaks out.”
Proverbs 17:14 compares initiating an argument to opening a floodgate. Once, I witnessed a small dispute escalate uncontrollably, causing much distress.
This verse advises us to let go of minor issues before they become major conflicts. It underscores the importance of picking our battles and knowing when to step back. By doing so, we can prevent unnecessary strife and nurture a more harmonious environment.
2 Timothy 2:23-24
“Don’t have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels. And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful.”
These verses caution against engaging in pointless arguments. I’ve learned that some disputes do nothing but generate further discord.
2 Timothy 2:23-24 encourages us to focus on kindness and teaching rather than getting caught up in senseless arguments. A gentle and instructive approach helps cultivate understanding and avoids resentment. These verses remind us to prioritize meaningful interactions over futile disputes, fostering a more loving and respectful atmosphere.
Proverbs 20:3
“It is to one’s honor to avoid strife, but every fool is quick to quarrel.”
This proverb praises those who steer clear of conflict. I’ve realized that it often takes wisdom and maturity to avoid unnecessary quarrels.
Proverbs 20:3 teaches that it is honorable to avoid strife and foolish to rush into arguments. This wisdom guides us to recognize the value of peace and the harm that comes from being quick-tempered. By striving to avoid conflict, we demonstrate maturity and cultivate a peaceful environment for ourselves and others.
Galatians 5:15
“If you bite and devour each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other.”
The vivid imagery in this verse showcases the destructive nature of conflict. I’ve seen how backbiting can corrode relationships, leaving a path of bitterness.
Galatians 5:15 warns us of the mutual destruction that arises from continuous conflict. It’s a powerful reminder to treat each other with respect and love. Focusing on unity rather than discord helps build stronger, healthier relationships and communities.
1 Corinthians 3:3
“You are still worldly. For since there is jealousy and quarreling among you, are you not worldly? Are you not acting like mere humans?”
This verse challenges believers to rise above worldly behavior characterized by jealousy and quarreling. In my spiritual journey, I’ve realized that letting go of jealousy is crucial for growth.
1 Corinthians 3:3 calls us to reflect on whether our behavior aligns with our faith. By overcoming jealousy and avoiding quarrels, we demonstrate spiritual maturity. This verse pushes us to strive for a higher standard of conduct as followers of Christ.
Colossians 3:13
“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.”
Forgiveness is a powerful antidote to strife. I’ve seen how forgiving others has healed many relationships in my life.
Colossians 3:13 teaches us to embody patience and forgiveness, just as Christ has forgiven us. When we choose to forgive rather than hold grudges, we break the cycle of conflict and pave the way for reconciliation and peace.
Proverbs 19:11
“A person’s wisdom yields patience; it is to one’s glory to overlook an offense.”
This verse underscores the value of wisdom and patience in dealing with offenses. I recall how overlooking minor offenses has often led to more harmonious relationships.
Proverbs 19:11 encourages us to practice patience and overlook trivial matters that could cause strife. This act of grace is a mark of wisdom and maturity and helps maintain peace and unity in our interactions with others.
1 Peter 3:9
“Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult. On the contrary, repay evil with blessing, because to this you were called so that you may inherit a blessing.”
This verse challenges us to respond to negativity with positivity. Initially, it can be tough, but I’ve found that it leads to better outcomes and personal peace.
1 Peter 3:9 calls us to break the cycle of retaliation. By blessing those who wrong us, we pave the way for our own blessings and foster a more peaceful, loving environment. This teaching helps us contribute positively even in challenging situations.
Proverbs 13:10
“Where there is strife, there is pride, but wisdom is found in those who take advice.”
This verse connects strife to pride. I’ve seen how stubbornness can escalate conflicts, whereas humility and openness to advice can defuse them.
Proverbs 13:10 teaches that pride often underlies conflict and that wisdom lies in humility and a willingness to accept counsel. Embracing advice helps us navigate disagreements more effectively, fostering peace and understanding.
Ephesians 4:31
“Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice.”
This verse offers a comprehensive guide for eliminating sources of strife. In my life, letting go of these negative emotions has significantly improved my relationships.
Ephesians 4:31 urges us to cleanse our hearts of all forms of hostility. By removing bitterness, rage, and other negative emotions, we create a space for love and peace to flourish. This practice is essential for maintaining harmonious and fulfilling relationships.
Philippians 2:3
“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.”
This verse calls us to act selflessly and value others. I’ve found that putting others’ needs first often leads to more harmonious relationships.
Philippians 2:3 advocates for humility and selflessness as key ingredients to avoiding strife. By valuing others and their needs, we foster a community built on respect and love. This verse serves as a powerful reminder to live out our faith in our interactions with others.
Ecclesiastes 7:9
“Do not be quickly provoked in your spirit, for anger resides in the lap of fools.”
This verse advises against quick anger. I’ve found that taking time to cool off before responding can prevent many conflicts.
Ecclesiastes 7:9 teaches us to be slow to anger, as quick-tempered reactions often lead to foolish actions. By practicing calmness and patience, we can avoid unnecessary strife and maintain healthier interactions.
Proverbs 21:19
“Better to live in a desert than with a quarrelsome and nagging wife.”
This vivid comparison emphasizes the discomfort of living with a contentious person. It reminded me of how constant nagging can erode a relationship’s foundation.
Proverbs 21:19 highlights the unpleasantness of strife within close relationships. It encourages us to foster harmony rather than adopt a quarrelsome demeanor. By choosing peace and understanding, we can create more loving and supportive environments.
Proverbs 6:16-19
“There are six things the Lord hates, seven that are detestable to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are quick to rush into evil, a false witness who pours out lies and a person who stirs up conflict in the community.”
This passage lists behaviors detestable to God, including stirring up conflict. Reflecting on this, I see the importance of avoiding these destructive actions in my own life.
Proverbs 6:16-19 warns against behaviors that sow discord and harm the community. It serves as a guide to living a life pleasing to God by avoiding actions that lead to strife. Striving to adhere to these principles helps create a more loving and peaceful environment.
Titus 3:2
“To slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and always to be gentle toward everyone.”
This verse encourages peace, consideration, and gentleness. I’ve observed that these qualities genuinely transform interpersonal interactions.
Titus 3:2 calls us to cultivate behaviors that promote peace and respect. By being gentle and considerate, we can build stronger, more harmonious relationships. This verse serves as a daily reminder to treat others with kindness and understanding.
Also Read: 30 Bible Verses About Harming The Innocent
What Does the Bible Say About Strife?
In our journey through life, we often encounter strife, and it can be challenging to navigate its turbulent waters. The Bible provides us with profound wisdom on this topic, offering guidance and insight to help us foster peace and unity.
The concept of strife is frequently addressed in the Scriptures. The Bible warns us about the dangers of strife and encourages us to seek harmony. Paul, in his letters to the early Christians, consistently emphasized the importance of unity and warned against divisiveness. For instance, in his letter to the Corinthians, he lamented the division among the believers and urged them to be united in mind and purpose (1 Corinthians 1:10). This teaches us that strife can weaken our collective strength and undermine our purpose as a community.
James, too, speaks directly about strife, particularly when he addresses the source of conflicts among us. He explains that strife often arises from our own desires and selfish ambitions (James 4:1-3). This insight prompts us to look inward and examine our motives. Are we fostering peace, or are we driven by envy and selfishness? According to James, such desires lead to disorder and negative practices.
Proverbs also offers timeless wisdom on this subject, stating that a hot-tempered person stirs up strife, but one who is slow to anger quiets contention (Proverbs 15:18). This reminds us of the value of patience and self-control. When we allow anger to dictate our actions, we contribute to strife. Conversely, when we exercise patience and seek understanding, we pave the way for reconciliation and peace.
A key takeaway from the Bible’s teachings on strife is the call to be peacemakers. Jesus, in His Sermon on the Mount, pronounced blessings on the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God (Matthew 5:9). This blesses those who actively pursue and promote peace, affirming that peacemaking aligns us with God’s heart.
We can also find inspiration in the way Jesus Himself handled situations of strife. Whether He was calming a storm or mediating disputes among His disciples, He always exemplified peace and encouraged others to do the same. His life and teachings compel us to seek peace even in the face of adversity.
In summary, the Bible consistently calls us to move away from strife and towards peace and unity. Through self-examination, patience, and a commitment to peacemaking, we can follow this divine wisdom. Let us strive to embody these principles in our daily lives, promoting harmony and reflecting the love of Christ in all our interactions.