D I S S E N S I O N

Proverbs 6:16-19

Have you ever been on a team where someone is constantly stirring up trouble between teammates or with the coaching staff?  It’s not a pleasant place to be and that person is in a precarious position.

Here is the last of seven things the Lord finds detestable in Proverbs chapter 6 and verses 16 through 19, “There are six things the Lord hates, seven that are detestable to Him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are quick to rush into evil, a false witness who pours out lies, and a man who stirs up dissension among brothers.”

This is different that the other six in that this time it’s the person the Lord finds detestable, not just his or her behavior.  This kind of person dredges up the sediment of past hurts and divisions between people to divide them.  Once settled arguments are fired up again by his whispering accusations or emphasis on contrary opinions.

People who should be the most natural allies, like teammates or brothers, are suddenly divided by this person’s cutting words.  Rather than do that, let’s choose to preserve unity.  Instead of dividing people, we can unify them through encouragement and by promoting quick resolution of problems.  We can maintain tremendous attitudes on the team by seeking reconciliation at the first mention of conflict and division.

Preserve unity in this day’s competition by making your best effort in every moment as you pursue a win for your teammates and coaching staff.

Bible Reading Plan:
Luke 17:1-10
II Timothy 1:8-18
Proverbs 11:1-15