When we consider the words we speak, we may think of Proverbs 18:21 (NKJV): “Death and life are in the power of the tongue” or perhaps, “A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver” (Prov 25:11; NKJV). The Bible has much to say about our words. King David asked God to help him have thoughts and words acceptable to the Father (Ps 19:14; Ps 141:3). Wouldn’t it be great if we all followed Davids example? Our words reflect what is in our hearts (Matt 15:18) and our relationship with God (Matt 12:37; AMP). Food for thought, yes? “Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt” (Col 4:5; NKJV). Our words need to be gracious (Prov 16:24), edifying, comforting, wise and truthful (Eph 4:25,29; Col 4:6; 1 Thess 5:11; Prov 12:18). We are clearly to avoid any kind of corrupt, coarse or evil conversation (Ps 34:13,14; Eph 4:29; Eph 5:4). In scripture we are encouraged to limit the number of words we speak (Prov 10:19) and to be quick to listen and slow to speak (James 1:19). It’s good to put our brains in gear before we speak (Prov 29:20), choosing our words wisely. Let’s end with a quote from Jesus, “But I tell you, on the day of judgment people will have to give an accounting for every careless or useless word they speak. For by your words (reflecting your spiritual condition) you will be justified and acquitted of the guilt of sin, and by your words (rejecting Me) you will be condemned and sentenced” (Matt 12:36-37; AMP). Wow! did that get your attention? It got mine!

The Bible, especially the book of Proverbs, has a lot to say about strife and we are to avoid it at all cost (Eph 4:31). From Proverbs we learn that hatred, gossip and greed can cause strife. Other words used for strife in the Bible are, quarrels, conflict, discord, fights, contention. Solomon gives us some good advice in Prov 17:14, “The beginning of strife is as when water first trickles (from a crack in a dam) therefore stop contention before it becomes worse and quarrelling breaks out” (AMPC).

In the New Testament, strife is listed as a work of the flesh (Gal 5:20). The apostle Paul gave clear instructions about strife: “Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor and slander be removed from you, along with every form of malice” (Eph 4:31; NKJV). He instructed the Philippians, to overcome strife by being humble and esteeming others above themselves (Phil 2:3) and He told Timothy that: “A servant of the Lord must not quarrel but must be kind to everyone, be able to teach and be patient with difficult people” (2 Tim 2:24; NLT). What great advice! James also gives advice on how to deal with strife. He said, “Come close to God” (James 4:8), “Be humble” (James 4:6) and “Don’t criticize others” (James 4:11). Let’s allow Solomon the final word: “Even a fool when he holds his peace is considered wise: when he closes his lips, he is esteemed a man of understanding” (Prov 17:28; AMPC). We should always root out strife before it takes hold and gets out of control, just like that crack in the dam.

I