Today we will talk about bible verses about causing strife. Strife can create a rift in our relationships and modify the community we wish to build around us as Christians. The Bible gives us wisdom on how to manage conflicts and obstacles that come from strife. Understanding these scriptures helps those who seek to build peace and foster love among one another. As we meditate on God’s word today, I encourage us to reflect on the wisdom within, fostering a harmonious environment where love and understanding reign supreme.
Bible Verses About Causing Strife
Strife Leads to Division
In our daily lives, we often encounter moments of disagreement and quarrels that can lead to serious divisions among friends, families, or even church members. When we reflect on the Bible’s teachings about strife, we recognize that these conflicts can harm the unity that Christ desires for us. It’s clear that the Bible encourages us to strive for peace so that we can remain connected with one another and with God. We need to understand the importance of gently handling disagreements in our journey of faith to avoid unnecessary division.
James 4:1
“What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from your desires that battle within you?” – James 4:1
Proverbs 17:14
“Starting a quarrel is like breaching a dam; so drop the matter before a dispute breaks out.” – Proverbs 17:14
1 Corinthians 1:10
“I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another in what you say and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in mind and thought.” – 1 Corinthians 1:10
Galatians 5:15
“If you bite and devour each other, watch out or you will be destroyed by each other.” – Galatians 5:15
Philippians 2:14-15
“Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.” – Philippians 2:14-15
The Consequences of Strife
When we think about causing strife, we must also consider the consequences it brings to our lives. Strife can lead not just to misunderstandings but also to lasting damage that extends beyond ourselves. We might find ourselves weighed down by guilt or bitterness, which can negatively affect our relationships and walk with God. Knowing the potential repercussions of strife encourages us to be vigilant about how we conduct ourselves in conversations and interactions with others. Embracing peace is a fruitful choice backed by wisdom.
Proverbs 28:25
“The greedy stir up conflict, but those who trust in the Lord will prosper.” – Proverbs 28:25
Proverbs 10:12
“Hatred stirs up strife, but love covers all offenses.” – Proverbs 10:12
Romans 13:13
“Let us behave decently, as in the daytime, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual immorality and debauchery, not in dissension and jealousy.” – Romans 13:13
Titus 3:9
“But avoid foolish controversies and genealogies and arguments and quarrels about the law, because these are unprofitable and useless.” – Titus 3:9
2 Timothy 2:23
“Don’t have anything to do with foolish and stupid arguments, because you know they produce quarrels.” – 2 Timothy 2:23
Strife From Pride and Jealousy
Pride and jealousy are common culprits in causing strife among us. These emotions often drive individuals to compete against one another rather than work collaboratively for the greater good. We see how strife can stem from our human weaknesses, reminding us of our need to be humble throughout our lives. The Bible encourages us to approach others with kindness and understanding, diminishing the hold pride and jealousy may have over our actions. Let’s learn to foster humility, which leads to harmony.
Proverbs 13:10
“Where there is strife, there is pride, but wisdom is found in those who take advice.” – Proverbs 13:10
James 3:16
“For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice.” – James 3:16
Galatians 5:26
“Let us not become conceited, provoking and envying each other.” – Galatians 5:26
Matthew 7:3
“Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?” – Matthew 7:3
Psalms 133:1
“How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!” – Psalms 133:1
The Power of Our Words
Our words possess the incredible power to uplift or tear down. Strife often finds its roots in careless words spoken impulsively without thought. The Bible teaches us to use our words wisely to build bridges instead of barriers. It prompts us to reflect on the words we choose when engaging with others, guiding us toward a lifestyle filled with constructive dialogue. We can choose to inspire more love through supportive and gentle communication, helping to dissolve any brewing strife before it escalates.
Proverbs 15:1
“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” – Proverbs 15:1
Proverbs 18:21
“The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.” – Proverbs 18:21
Ephesians 4:29
“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” – Ephesians 4:29
Colossians 4:6
“Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.” – Colossians 4:6
Proverbs 12:18
“The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.” – Proverbs 12:18
Handling Conflict Wisely
Conflict is a natural part of life, and it’s essential for us to learn how to deal with it wisely. The Bible provides us with guidance on resolution, urging us to prioritize reconciliation and peace instead of division. By leaning into the wisdom of scripture, we can approach conflict positively, leading to healing and understanding. Implementing biblical principles in handling conflict can help foster relationships that flourish rather than fall apart, guiding us through our journey of faith alongside one another.
Matthew 5:9
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” – Matthew 5:9
Matthew 18:15
“If your brother or sister sins, go and point out their fault, just between the two of you. If they listen to you, you have won them over.” – Matthew 18:15
Romans 14:19
“Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.” – Romans 14:19
Proverbs 29:11
“Fools give full vent to their rage, but the wise bring calm in the end.” – Proverbs 29:11
Colossians 3:13
“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” – Colossians 3:13
Strife and Relationships
Our relationships with others can significantly impact our spiritual journey. Strife can damage these connections, causing members of our families, friends, or church to drift apart. We need to be mindful of how our actions and words can influence others, as we are called to reflect Christ’s love in our interactions. Acknowledging that our conflicts can create lasting rifts challenges us to engage in behaviors that promote love, understanding, and reconnection. Let’s lean on God’s teachings to foster harmony and strengthen our relationships.
1 Peter 3:8
“Finally, all of you, be like-minded, be sympathetic, love one another, be compassionate and humble.” – 1 Peter 3:8
Proverbs 16:28
“A perverse person stirs up conflict, and a gossip separates close friends.” – Proverbs 16:28
Matthew 18:20
“For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” – Matthew 18:20
Hebrews 12:14
“Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.” – Hebrews 12:14
1 Corinthians 13:4-5
“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.” – 1 Corinthians 13:4-5
The Role of Forgiveness
Forgiveness plays a crucial role in alleviating strife among us. When we hold onto grievances, we create an environment rife with bitterness and conflict. The Bible encourages us to offer forgiveness as a reflection of God’s love for us. By implement forgiveness into our lives, we can begin to heal both ourselves and our relationships. Learning to forgive allows us to break free from the grips of strife, fostering a more peaceful existence. It’s a powerful reminder of God’s grace and mercy toward us that we should extend to others.
Ephesians 4:32
“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” – Ephesians 4:32
Matthew 6:14
“For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.” – Matthew 6:14
Mark 11:25
“And when you stand praying, if you hold anything against anyone, forgive them, so that your Father in heaven may forgive you your sins.” – Mark 11:25
Colossians 3:13
“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” – Colossians 3:13
Psalms 86:5
“You, Lord, are forgiving and good, abounding in love to all who call to you.” – Psalms 86:5
Finding Peace Amidst Strife
In life, we may encounter strife, but our focus should always be on finding peace. The Bible intimately intertwines the notion of peace as a high calling for us. By engaging in spiritual practices like prayer, meditation, and reading scripture, we can discover the peace that God promises us, even amidst tensions or disagreements. In navigating our lives filled with potential conflict, we ought to pursue peace and show grace-filled hearts, allowing the presence of God to work within us as we build a more loving community.
Isaiah 26:3
“You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.” – Isaiah 26:3
Philippians 4:7
“And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” – Philippians 4:7
John 14:27
“Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” – John 14:27
James 3:18
“Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.” – James 3:18
Matthew 11:28
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” – Matthew 11:28
Final Thoughts
As we conclude our discussion on bible verses about causing strife, we embrace the importance of nurturing love and kindness in our interactions with others. The scriptures remind us that conflicts can arise from human emotions such as pride, jealousy, and disagreements over different viewpoints. However, we have the power to choose how we respond to these situations.
We can strive to foster understanding, compassion, and forgiveness, learning to handle conflicts wisely and allowing God’s peace to reign. Engaging with the Bible provides us with invaluable wisdom to navigate life’s challenges and build a loving community.
Finally, let us remember that we are called to be peacemakers, actively working toward unity rather than division. As we reflect on the lessons learned today, let’s commit ourselves to pursuing peace and kindness in every relationship we cultivate.
Further Reading
30 Bible Verses About Getting Closer To God (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Removing People From Your Life (With Commentary)
30 Bible Verses About Israel (With Explanation)
30 Bible Verses About Being Lukewarm (With Explanation)
4 Ways to Encounter Grace and Truth: A Study on John, Chapter 4
