Avoid Strife

"It is to a man’s honor to avoid strife, but every fool is quick to quarrel." -- Proverbs 20:3

We learn to debate in high school or college and watch heated exchanges every day on the news. Quarreling seems to be a natural part of our society. Yet, what is actually accomplished from these rapid-fire, disrespectful and self-righteous diatribes? After all is said and done, there is no honor in a quarrel.

As Solomon wisely writes, to avoid strife is an honorable effort. Jesus spoke of peacemakers being blessed ones in Matthew 5:9 and the writer of Hebrews wrote in 12:14, "Make every effort to live in peace with all men..." Being quick to quarrel is a foolish pursuit with little gain.

To be an honorable disciple of Christ is to follow in his steps of gentleness and patience. In the words of Paul in 2 Timothy 2:24, "... the Lord’s servant must not quarrel; instead, he must be kind to everyone, able to teach, not resentful." It is far wiser to avoid strife and affirm peace.