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.

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