Thursday, November 24, 2016

Proverbs 13:10 -- On Pride and Contention

"Only by pride cometh contention: but with the well advised is wisdom."
Proverbs 13:10


This is an interesting idea, that all contention involves pride.  I've never really thought about it before, and my initial instinct was to reject the idea... but maybe that was a little bit of pride too. :)  I don't think any of us probably want to admit how much selfishness/pride is wrapped up in our conflicts.

I like the part about being well-advised as well, and, as far as advisors go, God is clearly the pinnacle.  He is the source of all wisdom, which gives us something to look to in order to save us from our own pride, and thus often faulty decisions.  In a way, God is like the invisible umpire present during any conflict or potential conflict.  His spirit helps us to remember the rules, his commandments, that are also designed to help us navigate life and overcome our own tendency to pride, anger, and selfishness.  If we take the time to stop our automatic reactions, and listen to God and his advice, then we can learn to be wise and resolve conflict instead of encouraging and exacerbating it.  If pride is a necessary part of contention, then a little humility goes a long way.  A world without conflict starts with us, learning to let go of our pride and listen to God.  Let's try it. :)

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