Strife

Just recently we discussed the topic of strife in church.

Strife

noun

angry or bitter disagreement over fundamental issues; conflict.

"strife within the community"

synonyms:

conflict, friction, discord, disagreement, dissension,  dispute, argument,quarreling, wrangling, bickering, controversy;

Strife is something that we all thrive on in some form whether it’s on a reality show, scripted sitcom, friendships, news or with strangers. It’s sad to say it but it’s true. When was the last time that you watched a reality show like Real Housewives or Entertainment Tonight? They always have some part of strife included in their programming, but we watch it. Even I have to admit that I watch these shows.

Pastor Drew has even pointed out how some people like to have strife with others, that it’s something they can’t function properly without it.

As long as we live in this world, there will always be some sort of strife in the form of a disagreement or friction because we all don’t have the same personalities or ways of doing things/living.

The point is to try to put it off as much as possible, don’t let strife cause you to fall into unforgiveness or other sin.

I understand that it can be hard to not get snippy with someone that “rubs” you the wrong way or with a relative that you know is trying to get under your skin so that you get out of “character”, however we have to pull back and think “what will me firing back at them do?” ‘Is it really worth it?” Most likely the answer is “No”.

Take a deep breath and don’t even bother answering back to the negativity. It takes practice.