Are you struggling with a habit of being divisive? We have outlined a five-step process to help you change and heal in this area of your life. Take all the time you need with each of the steps below.
Step 1: Adopt a Correct View of God
When we are constant sources of conflict and strife, it is obvious that we are not truly seeing God for who He is. What aspects of your view of God may be influencing your conflict problem? The points listed below will help you begin the process of self-analysis.
- God is love; there is no place in His kingdom for conflict.
We don’t need to write to you about the importance of loving each other, for God Himself has taught you to love one another. (1 Thessalonians 4:2)
- God is merciful and He expects us to show mercy to others.
Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of your love. (Ephesians 4:2)
When you view God as a loving and merciful being, you will respond in like manner to those around you. Undertake a survey on the Bible’s passages on God’s peaceable nature. Tools such as a concordance and a topical Bible can help you in this task.
Step 2: Revise Your False Beliefs
What erroneous beliefs do you have that justify your combative spirit? Chances are, you have some false beliefs about yourself, about other people, and about how life works. Ask yourself the following questions:
- Do you believe you must always correct others when they are wrong?
Starting a quarrel is like opening a floodgate, so stop before a dispute breaks out. (Proverbs 17:14)
- Do you believe you have the right to say spiteful things about others because of something they have said about you?
Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone. (Romans 12:18)
Continue your Bible study by examining what Scripture says about harmony and unity. As you do so, reconsider your beliefs, acknowledged or unspoken, that may have helped turn you into a fighter. Conform your thinking to God’s truth.