Read: Proverbs 17:11-17
The beginning of strife is as when one letteth out water: therefore leave off contention, before it be meddled with. Proverbs 17:14 KJV
With any situation a difference of opinion can turn into a big disagreement.
It only takes a moment.
Things start to get out of control, arguments, and fights happen.
We see it happening in sports quite often.
It starts when one player gets into a fight with another player.
Within minutes the players from both sides begin to join in the fight.
Unfortunately, it can sometimes spread to the stands.
The fans from both sides join in the fight.
The matter continues to go from bad to worse.
Proverbs tells us to stop conflict.
To do it before becoming passionately involved in something (Proverbs 11:14 KJV).
How heated conversations inflame the spirit.
How it puts families and societies into a flame (Proverbs 26:20-21 KJV).
That when we continue to whisper and backbite, flames are kindled. (Proverbs 26:22 KJV).
We are not to be the person who feels they have the right to interfere in quarrels that do not concern them.
We are to take control of our thoughts and actions.
To help maintain a peaceful atmosphere.
Watching what we say.
It is difficult to take back the words that are spoken.
The pain and suffering that may be caused by all involved.
Because of the love the Father has for us, He always gives us Words of wisdom.
He is warning us not to find ourselves in unnecessary conflicts.
He knows how strife can be dangerous to our lives.
How we are to take great thought about how it really affects us and others.
We all know it is easy to start a fight, but harder to stop one.
Be the one who stops it before it starts.
A WORD OF PRAYER
Father, we know we always need to heed Your warnings. May we come to really know the conflict can cause so much trouble in our lives. When we have our moments of wanting to lash out at someone, help us to stop it before it starts. We know we should always stop to prevent harm to both us and others. You have told us, “A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger” (Proverbs 15:1 KJV). Help us to keep striving to walk in this way.
In Jesus’ Name We Pray, Amen