8 Bible Verses About Conflict and Conflict Resolution

We are going to have conflict whether we like it or not—it’s part of life. The key to dealing with conflict is to follow God’s word and respond obediently. Dealing with conflict isn’t easy; however, it can’t be ignored as difficult behavior will continue. Discover what the Bible teaches about conflict and how to deal with it:

Conflict is stirred up by a hating heart

“Hatred stirs up conflict, but love covers over all wrongs” (Proverbs 10:12).

Hatred in the heart of any person will cause conflict anywhere. Unrest between nations, races, and neighbors is often rooted in hatred. Although we can’t always solve the issue of hatred, we can demonstrate the unconditional love of Christ as a response to a hateful person.

Conflicts remind us of our need for God’s hand in every part of our lives.

Conflict is stirred up by a hot tempered heart

“A hot-tempered person stirs up conflict, but the one who is patient calms a quarrel” (Proverbs 15:18).

Many people are raised in families where hot tempers are the primary example of dealing with problems. Yet those who are quick to respond to situations without prayer or pause—often miss prime opportunities to learn, listen, and love those around them. A calm and patient response that is rooted in the Lord can bring many conflicting situations to a sudden end.

Conflict is stirred up by a perverse heart

“A perverse person stirs up conflict, and a gossip separates close friends” (Proverbs 16:28).

Perversity is becoming more of a standard of living and acceptance in this world; therefore, much conflict and confusion dominates many people’s lives. Believers can take a stand of holiness, gentleness, and purity to reduce the amount of conflict in their community. Our example of being like Christ will go against the worldliness and serve as a reminder that God sees everything.

Conflict is stirred up by a greedy heart

“The greedy stir up conflict, but those who trust in the Lord will prosper (Proverbs 28:25).

A person who takes more than what they need in order to fill the desires of their flesh can cause much conflict at home, work, and school. Much conflict can be averted as believers demonstrate the spirit of generosity of their wealth, time, and energy. Greediness shouldn’t be named among believers as the Lord is the source of everything we need.

Conflict is stirred up by an angry heart

“An angry person stirs up conflict, and a hot-tempered person commits many sins” (Proverbs 29:22).

An angry man or woman can cause conflict in any setting. Their angry words and actions could take just a moment, yet the ramifications can last a lifetime. Those who name Christ as Lord must step back in tense situations when anger is flaring to hear what God would give them to do in order to bring peace.

Conflict can be solved if others get involved

“But if they will not listen, take one or two others along, so that ‘every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses’” (Matthew 18:16).

Sin will always cause conflict especially if practiced in the body of Christ. In order to deal with it adequately, there should be no small measure of wisdom, grace, and love in place. Those who are called to deal with this difficult situation should be people of spiritual maturity marked by their patience and kindness.

Conflict needs to be resolved before leaving a gift to God

“Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift” (Matthew 5:23-24).

God cares about our squabbles—in marriages, families, church, work, or friendships. Conflicts must be dealt with and not ignored. The Lord loves His family and wants us to live in harmony with each other. We can’t bypass the conflicts and go straight to give gifts to God—He wants us to take the difficult steps of being reconciled to each other.

Conflict needs to be dealt with right away

“Settle matters quickly with your adversary who is taking you to court. Do it while you are still together on the way, or your adversary may hand you over to the judge, and the judge may hand you over to the officer, and you may be thrown into prison. Truly I tell you, you will not get out until you have paid the last penny” (Matthew 5:25-26).

Most of us don’t like to deal with conflict—it can be messy and inconvenient. Yet Jesus encourages His people to not put off dealing with conflicts. At the root of most conflicts is pride and we must check our hearts to be sure we have no remnants of it in our hearts.

Conflicting Moments…

Just because there is conflict—doesn’t mean relationships have to end. Conflicts remind us of our need for God’s hand in every part of our lives. We need to see conflict as an opportunity to reveal the work of Christ in our lives. Jesus had conflict everywhere He went and yet His purpose was fulfilled in spite of it. We must go and do likewise as our Lord.

Tagged as: Bible Verses, conflict, conflict resolution