When a dispute takes place between two people it can often be, six of one and half a dozen of the other; an old saying that implies both people are at fault or put another way – it takes two to tango. Let’s have a look at what the Bible tells us about conflict.
James 1:19-20 (CSB)
My dear brothers and sisters, understand this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger, for human anger does not accomplish God’s righteousness.
James is saying we should not let anger control us, we must be in control of the anger.
Hebrews 12:14 (CSB)
Pursue peace with everyone, and holiness – without it no one will see the Lord.
How we conduct ourselves reflects our spiritual maturity. If we want to see the Lord we must learn how to control our words and actions and remain faithful to God.
Proverbs 15:18 (CSB)
A hot-tempered person stirs up conflict, but one slow to anger calms strife.
Proverbs 28:25 (CSB)
A greedy person stirs up conflict, but whoever trusts in the Lord will prosper.
A proud heart in a person is prone to continually be at odds with those around them but a person who trusts in the Lord will prosper.
Ephesians 4:31-32 (CSB)
Let all bitterness, anger and wrath, shouting and slander be removed from you, along with all malice. And be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving one another, just as God also forgave you in Christ.
Paul is explaining to us, behaviour that should be avoided and behaviour that should be developed in us. Paul is letting us know how God wants us to live our lives alongside others.
Matthew 5:9 (CSB)
“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.”
This scripture from Matthew 5:9 is part of The Beatitudes, from Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount which He taught to a large crowd and His disciples on a mountainside. The teaching is all about God’s laws, which Jesus expects His followers to uphold.
We must learn how to control our negative emotions and anger, and pursue peace and holiness if we want to see the Lord.
Onward Christian Soldiers 