You love your family and friends, but at times they get on your nerves.
Lately, it has been from one issue to another, and you don’t remember the cause of some disagreements.
You are tired of this, and you want things to change.
Well, every relationship goes through some challenging times. We disagree from time to time, but it doesn’t mean that we cannot solve things amicably. When not dealt with, strife tears great relationships apart.
Instead of brushing things aside deal with strife right away. Not doing so will open up doors for every evil thing.
And the tongue is a fire. The world of iniquity among our members is the tongue, which defiles the whole body, and sets on fire the course of nature, and is set on fire by Gehenna. James 3:6
But what causes strife? Why can’t we live in harmony without conflict and disagreements among us?
Anger
There are things people do that leave us angry.
Anger causes us to do things we regret later. It causes us to say mean things and even harm others in extreme cases.
A wrathful man stirs up contention, but one who is slow to anger appeases strife. Proverbs 15:18
Well, the Bible doesn’t tell us not to be angry. Instead, it says be angry, but don’t sin. People will hurt you, but how you react to them is what matters most.
Pride
Some people look down on others because they believe that they are better than everyone.
Being around a proud person is hard. They will always find ways of undermining you. They don’t listen to others and always feel the need to teach others what they know.
Pride only breeds quarrels, but wisdom is with people who take advice. Proverbs 13:10
Hatred
You will never be on good terms with someone you hate. Every time you spend time together, you will always bicker at each other.
Hatred stirs up strife, but love covers all wrongs. Proverbs 10:12
How to Stop Strife in your life
Avoid Retaliating
There will always be someone that will rub you the wrong way.
We cannot run away from conflict but do not retaliate when someone makes you angry.
Walk away or keep quiet. Ask God for insight and then deal with the issue when you are calm. If you are wrong, apologize to the person quickly instead of creating excuses or defending yourself.
It is easy to lash out, but it is better to pray.
Listen Carefully
Listen to what the other person is saying carefully and where you don’t understand, gently ask questions.
There are moments where we misunderstand people, and there are times we think we know it all, but we don’t. It’s good to listen without prejudging anyone.
Acknowledge Other People’s Pain
Don’t be quick to judge someone.
Maybe they are hurting on the inside. It is not an excuse but hurting people hurt others. Instead of hating the person forgive them and pray for them.
Forgive them even if they don’t apologize.
Strife opens up doors for so many evil things, and it gives the devil ground over your life.
Be careful when dealing with people and look at everyone from the angel of grace. It is not easy, but with the help of God, you will be able to do the right thing for the honor and glory of God.
