"The beginning of strife is like the releasing of water, therefore stop a contention before a quarrel starts. (Proverbs 17:14)"
There has come to this office a realization. Pride is the source of all major arguments. Contentious and stressful actions begin with someone feeling treated badly. We are the center of our universe.
As the world turns offense takes place. Our self centered position drifts us into a bunker type mentality that awaits for someone to challenge us. Then the fight is on. Truth is simply better.
When the writer spoke out that strife is released it is like water. It goes to the lowest place and pools up. Unfortunately our self will dams up this pooled strife and when we are offended the dam breaks. Woe unto the one who has stumbled into this pool of pent up hurts and pain.
No one will be able to please that person until the strife is gone, the argument pass and the season turns. But the damage is done. The apologies flow. But the damage is done. The promises that it will never happen again flow. But the damage is done.
Jesus said in Luke 17 to beware of offenses because they will happen to each and everyone of humanity. They may be a bulldozer which pushes through the dam and releases the pool of strife within. It may be as simple as a pin prick that allows the erosion of the dam to begin and then break into a river of released pent up emotions and stress. It is guaranteed to happen. You will be the focal point of offense.
But will you be offended? Now, that's the question. The writer is suggesting to us that should the pool of strife in our life be empty then there will be no release or torrent of pride driven emotions. This will stop a quarrel before it starts.
Now that the answer is presented and the cause verified we probe our humanity. Is not fear the host of pride that results in strife? Our inferiority or weakness in a situation is bolstered by argumentative and loud voices. Our blood pressure goes through the roof. We act in ways that surprise. We are hurt.
So let's look at it again....and again...and again...
"The beginning of strife is like the releasing of water, therefore stop a contention before a quarrel starts. (Proverbs 17:14)"