Unnecessary Strife: Thermometer or Thermostat?

 

Unfortunately strife is a part of our lives.  It may be because of our own behavior or due to the behavior of others. But the good news is we can by the power of the Lord turn it away.  We can deflect it.

Strife is defined as:  vigorous or bitter conflict, discord, or antagonism, a quarrel, struggle, or clash

 

 

Sometimes we cause it by having to have the last word in and proving our point. We insist that our way is the only way. Sometimes we are the brunt of it because someone else’s doing.  Maybe we just had to have the last word.  I know there have been times I have!

 

Proverbs 16:28 NLT gives us some insight to this.  A troublemaker plants seeds of strife; gossip separates the best of friends.  And Proverbs 10:19 gives another reason for strife: Too much talk leads to sin. Be sensible and keep your mouth shut.

We can have strife at home, at work and in any relationship. When we have strife in any area it is most important that we look for any source of it. Sometimes we carry it with us because we have strife at home. Sometimes we carry strife home because we have it at work. 

 

The good thing is we can turn it around.  I have seen it happen.  As believers in Christ I believe we are to be more like thermostats than thermometers.  Here is why I think that. James 1:18 says this:  Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry.  And   Proverbs 15:1 says that a soft word turns away anger but harsh words stir up anger. Proverbs 3:5 NLT Trust in the LORD with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Proverbs 3:6 NIV in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. 

 

So the next time you find yourself in a stressful situation that is loaded with strife, take a breath and whisper a prayer. Don’t lean on your own wisdom, trust in the Lord. Be quick to listen and slow to speak.  Keep quiet until you can answer softly and kindly.  And you will find that strife ceases and peace will prevail.  Be aware though, this takes patience and practice.  Don’t get discouraged.  God’s not finished with us yet!