Topical Encyclopedia Strife, a term often associated with conflict, discord, and contention, is frequently addressed in the Bible as a destructive force that disrupts harmony and unity among individuals and communities. One of the primary catalysts for strife, as identified in Scripture, is pride. Pride, characterized by an inflated sense of self-importance and an excessive focus on one's own desires and achievements, often leads to disputes and divisions.The Book of Proverbs, known for its wisdom literature, provides insight into the relationship between pride and strife. Proverbs 13:10 states, "Arrogance leads only to strife, but wisdom is with the well-advised." This verse highlights the direct connection between arrogance—a manifestation of pride—and the emergence of strife. The contrast with wisdom suggests that humility and seeking counsel can prevent such discord. Further emphasizing this connection, Proverbs 28:25 declares, "A greedy man stirs up strife, but he who trusts in the LORD will prosper." Here, greed, often rooted in pride, is shown to incite strife. The verse contrasts the self-reliant, prideful individual with one who places trust in God, indicating that reliance on divine guidance fosters peace and prosperity. The New Testament also addresses the issue of pride-induced strife. In his epistle to the Galatians, the Apostle Paul warns against behaviors that disrupt Christian fellowship. Galatians 5:19-21 lists "strife" among the works of the flesh, which are contrary to the fruit of the Spirit. Paul admonishes believers to live by the Spirit, which inherently opposes the prideful tendencies that lead to strife. James, the brother of Jesus, provides further insight into the destructive nature of pride and its role in causing strife. James 4:1-2 asks, "What causes conflicts and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from the passions at war within you? You crave what you do not have; you kill and covet, but are unable to obtain it. You quarrel and fight." This passage identifies internal desires, often fueled by pride, as the root of external conflicts. The biblical narrative consistently portrays pride as a vice that not only distances individuals from God but also sows discord among people. The account of Absalom, King David's son, serves as a poignant example. Absalom's pride and ambition led him to rebel against his father, resulting in a civil war within Israel (2 Samuel 15-18). His account illustrates how pride can escalate into strife with devastating consequences. In contrast, the Bible extols humility as a virtue that fosters peace and unity. Philippians 2:3 advises, "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves." This exhortation underscores the importance of humility in preventing strife and promoting harmonious relationships. Throughout Scripture, the theme of strife excited by pride serves as a cautionary tale, urging believers to cultivate humility and seek wisdom. By doing so, individuals can avoid the pitfalls of pride and contribute to a community characterized by peace and mutual respect. Torrey's Topical Textbook Proverbs 13:10Only by pride comes contention: but with the well advised is wisdom. Torrey's Topical Textbook Proverbs 28:25 Library Essay v. Whose Powers Shed Round Him in the Common Strife... A Servant of Servants God's Restraining Power. Huss and Jerome. Huss and Jerome The Impending Conflict The Impending Conflict. Progress of Reform in Germany. Progress of Reform in Germany The Martyrdom of John Resources What does it mean that the love of many will grow cold (Matthew 24:12)? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are the works of the flesh? | GotQuestions.org What is the biblical significance of Beer Lahai Roi? | GotQuestions.org Strife: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Strife: An Evidence of a Carnal Spirit Strife: Appeased by Slowness to Anger Strife: Between Abraham and Lot's Herdsmen Strife: Christ, an Example of Avoiding Strife: Christians at Antioch (In Syria), About Circumcision Strife: Danger of Joining In--Illustrated Strife: Difficulty of Stopping, a Reason for Avoiding It Strife: Disciples, Over Who Could be the Greatest Strife: Evidences a Love of Transgression Strife: Excited by a Contentious Disposition Strife: Excited by Curious Questions Strife: Excited by Drunkenness Strife: Excited by Frowardness Strife: Excited by Tale-Bearing Strife: General Scriptures Concerning Strife: Herdmen of Abram and of Lot Strife: Herdmen of Gerar and of Isaac Strife: Hypocrites Make Religion a Pretence For Strife: Isaac's and Those of Gerar Strife: Israel and Judah, About David Strife: It is Honorable to Cease From Strife: Jephthah and his Brothers Strife: Jephthah and the Ephraimites Strife: Jews, Concerning Jesus Strife: Leads to Confusion and Every Evil Work Strife: Leads to Mutual Destruction Strife: Ministers should Avoid Strife: Ministers should Avoid Questions That Lead To Strife: Ministers should not Preach Through Strife: Ministers should Reprove Strife: Ministers should Warn Against Strife: Paul and Barnabas, About Mark Strife: Pharisees and Sadducees Strife: Pharisees and Sadducees, Concerning the General Resurrection Strife: Promoters of, should be Expelled Strife: Saints Kept from Tongues of Strife: Saints should Avoid Questions That Lead To Strife: Saints should do all Things Without Strife: Saints should not Act From Strife: Saints should not Walk In Strife: Saints should Praise God for Protection From Strife: Saints should Seek God's Protection From Strife: Saints should Submit to Wrong Rather than Engage In Strife: Strength and Violence of--Illustrated Strife: Temporal Blessing Embittered By Strife: The Corinthian Christians Related Terms |
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