What steps can prevent us from becoming "one who stirs up discord"? Take the Warning Seriously • Proverbs 6:19 puts “one who spreads discord among brothers” alongside lying and murder—sins God “hates” (Proverbs 6:16–19). • Acknowledge that stirring strife is not a minor flaw but a grave offense. Reverent fear of God’s judgment motivates change (Proverbs 9:10). Examine the Heart First • “Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks” (Matthew 12:34). • Ask: What bitterness, jealousy, or pride pushes me to divide others? (James 3:14–16). • Daily invite God’s searchlight: “Search me, O God… see if there is any offensive way in me” (Psalm 139:23–24). Guard the Tongue • “The tongue is a fire” (James 3:6). If the heart is the source, the tongue is the delivery system. • Practical steps: – Pause before speaking (Proverbs 15:28). – Refuse to pass along unverified stories (Proverbs 17:4). – Avoid sarcastic or cutting remarks; they stir resentment (Proverbs 12:18). – Speak privately, never publicly, when correction is needed (Matthew 18:15). Seek Peace—and Chase After It • “Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it” (Psalm 34:14). Peace is an action verb. • Be proactive: – Bridge misunderstandings quickly (Ephesians 4:26). – Offer conciliatory words: “A gentle answer turns away wrath” (Proverbs 15:1). – Mediate, don’t instigate; be the first to suggest prayer, confession, or a shared meal (Romans 12:18). Build Up with Truth and Love • “Let us pursue what leads to peace and to mutual edification” (Romans 14:19). • Ask before speaking: Will these words strengthen faith, or fracture fellowship? • Share Scripture, testimonies, and encouragement that promote unity (Ephesians 4:29). Cultivate Humility • “With humility comes wisdom” (Proverbs 11:2). Pride fuels discord; humility disarms it. • Actively esteem others as more important (Philippians 2:3). • Be teachable, willing to yield in non-essentials (James 3:17). Practice Quick Forgiveness • “Bear with one another and forgive… just as the Lord forgave you” (Colossians 3:13). • Holding grudges fertilizes gossip; releasing offenses uproots strife (Proverbs 10:12). Stay Filled with the Spirit • The flesh produces “strife, jealousy, fits of rage” (Galatians 5:20), but the Spirit yields “love, peace, patience” (Galatians 5:22). • Regular prayer, Scripture intake, and obedience keep the Spirit’s fruit fresh and discord at bay (Ephesians 5:18–21). Invite Accountability • “Iron sharpens iron” (Proverbs 27:17). Trusted believers help spot divisive habits early. • Welcome correction; it is protection (Proverbs 9:8–9). • Commit with friends or family to call out gossip, sarcasm, or harshness the moment it surfaces. By taking these deliberate, Scripture-anchored steps, we forsake the path of the discord-sower and walk in the peace that God loves and blesses. |
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