“The beginning of strife is like letting out water [as from a small break in a dam; first it trickles and then it gushes]; Therefore abandon the quarrel before it breaks out and tempers explode.” Proverbs 17:14 AMP

Today we focus on the subject of strife. The word translated “strife” is the Hebrew word meaning to “express forceful differences of opinion without necessarily have a presumed goal of seeking an answer or solution: to dispute.” I cannot think of a better description of the activities of a fool! You see, a fool knows the truth but then disregards that truth to foster their own way! They begin their defense without any realistic end point. The goal is not to arrive at the truth as in the process of debate but rather to seek agreement with their view. Our verse warns us not to even give attention to  this kind of interaction as it just leads to more and more foolishness and anger! The Apostle Paul did not mince words when it came to the dangers of allowing this kind of thing in the church.

“But avoid foolish and ill-informed and stupid controversies and genealogies and dissensions and quarrels about the Law, for they are unprofitable and useless. 10After a first and second warning reject a divisive man [who promotes heresy and causes dissension–ban him from your fellowship and have nothing more to do with him], 11well aware that such a person is twisted and is sinning; he is convicted and self-condemned [and is gratified by causing confusion among believers].”

Titus 3:9-11 Amp

Ouch! Those are strong words yet as our verse today instructs us, “abandon the quarrel before it breaks out and tempers explode.” We have seen in verses past that there is no sense in trying to reason with a fool or those who chose to reject the truth. We see that many time people attempted to trap Jesus with “vain and worthless” arguments. His reaction was to end the conversation with an answer from the Word of God! So angry were the religious leaders that the ultimately tried to kill Him! 

There are times that people come to me with questions not really looking for an answer. Their whole goal is to get me to acknowledge that they are right. They have no intention of actually coming to the truth of the matter, but rather want me to agree with them. I have many times seen the temperature rise on their part as I have refused to be drawn in to a senseless discussion. Our verse describes this process as the bursting of a dam once a small leak is detected.

The beginning of strife is like a crack in the dam. This is a dangerous situation! If left unaddressed, it will make for serious failure of the dam. A fight is coming as the pressure builds and builds. The only solution is to relive the pressure pushing against the wall! What kind of response will you give? Through a little comment that will inflame the discussion. Drop a little guilt in the direction of your opponent? Once you revert into the “self-justification” mode you are headed for an uncontrollable release! The Scripture tells us that one of the fruits of the Spirit is self-control. That is a direct exercise of our will! On our own we cannot control ourselves, but through the power of the Holy Spirit we can have the victory! If you have an entire dam of unreleased anger that is pushing you to an uncontrolled release, maybe you need some time alone with the one who can carry your burden for you! Many relationships have been destroyed over small and insignificant arguments. Pride is the epidemy of self-importance. Unforgiveness is the tool of the enemy he uses to keep you from having the peace that passing understanding. Remember the words of Jesus,

“Come to Me, all who are weary and heavily burdened [by religious rituals that provide no peace], and I will give you rest [refreshing your souls with salvation]. 29Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me [following Me as My disciple], for I am gentle and humble in heart, and YOU WILL FIND REST (renewal, blessed quiet) FOR YOUR SOULS. 30For My yoke is easy [to bear] and My burden is light.” 

Matthew 11:28-29 AMP

Have a fruitful day enjoying His indescribable peace! Pastor Ken