Avoiding strife is a significant theme in the Bible, emphasizing the importance of peace, unity, and love among individuals and communities. Strife, often characterized by conflict, discord, and contention, is seen as detrimental to personal relationships and communal harmony. The Bible provides guidance on how to avoid strife and encourages believers to pursue peace and reconciliation.

Biblical Principles

1. Pursuit of Peace: The Bible consistently encourages believers to seek peace and avoid unnecessary conflict. In Romans 12:18, Paul writes, "If it is possible on your part, live at peace with everyone." This verse underscores the importance of making every effort to maintain peaceful relationships, recognizing that while it may not always be possible, the pursuit itself is a vital Christian duty.

2. Gentle Speech: Proverbs 15:1 highlights the power of words in either escalating or de-escalating conflict: "A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." This proverb teaches that gentle and thoughtful communication can prevent strife and promote understanding.

3. Humility and Patience: Ephesians 4:2-3 advises believers to "be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace." Humility and patience are essential virtues in avoiding strife, as they enable individuals to prioritize unity and love over personal grievances.

4. Avoiding Quarrels: Proverbs 20:3 states, "It is honorable for a man to resolve a dispute, but any fool will quarrel." This verse suggests that wisdom and honor are found in resolving disputes rather than engaging in quarrels, which are often rooted in pride and stubbornness.

5. Forgiveness: Forgiveness is a crucial element in avoiding and resolving strife. Colossians 3:13 instructs, "Bear with each other and forgive any complaint you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you." By forgiving others, believers can break the cycle of conflict and promote reconciliation.

Examples from Scripture

1. Abraham and Lot: In Genesis 13, Abraham and Lot's herdsmen were quarreling over land. To avoid strife, Abraham offered Lot the choice of land, saying, "Let there be no strife between you and me, or between your herdsmen and my herdsmen, for we are brothers" (Genesis 13:8). Abraham's willingness to prioritize peace over personal gain serves as a model for resolving disputes amicably.

2. Jesus' Teachings: Jesus emphasized the importance of reconciliation in His teachings. In Matthew 5:9, He states, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God." Jesus also taught that reconciliation should take precedence over religious rituals, as seen in Matthew 5:23-24, where He instructs believers to reconcile with their brother before offering a gift at the altar.

3. Paul and Barnabas: In Acts 15:36-41, Paul and Barnabas experienced a sharp disagreement over John Mark's participation in their missionary journey. Although they parted ways, both continued their ministry work, demonstrating that even when strife occurs, it is possible to move forward in a manner that honors God and furthers His kingdom.

Practical Application

Believers are encouraged to actively pursue peace and avoid strife in their daily lives. This involves practicing humility, patience, and forgiveness, as well as seeking reconciliation and understanding in conflicts. By embodying these principles, Christians can reflect the love and unity that God desires for His people, fostering harmonious relationships within the church and the broader community.