Strife is angry or violent disagreement. The words we may find in the Bible that translate as strife are also called discord, contention, contradiction, fighting, provocation, and so forth. Whichever connotation one is using, strife sure sounds like a daytime tv brawl! Unfortunately, strife may find its way off our screens and literally in our face!

Patience may appease strife for a moment, but is it always easy to stop strife in its tracks? One proven tactic is to avoid strife before it takes flight.

Sometimes, one need not seek strife. Strife comes looking for the person! If you should see a person initiating such an exchange, it is unwise to join him or her in the provocation. If you are the one so attacked, there is hope in the protection of the Father.

People arent the only sources of fuel to that fire. One must be alert to the effects of hostility and proud questioning (yes, there is such a thing as stupid questions!), drunkenness, gossip, greed, hate, lust, mocking, arrogance, an unbridled tongue, and wrath.

Strife can lead to confusion, injustice, and mutual destruction! The wise leader avoids leading others down such paths.

Alternatives To Strife

Seek areas of harmony.

Encourage people to be on one accord.

Acknowledge unity.

Be aware of whether your own speech promotes peace or strife.