READ: Proverbs 16: 16–19
Only by pride cometh contention: but with the well advised is wisdom. :- Proverbs 13:10
A novice can fall into pride easily, and this pride is shown by contention and quarrelling. One day two young pastors were involved in a conflict. These pastors were working together in the same church. Somehow, there was always some contention. When matters got to a head, I said to the junior of the two, “You must stop having this contention and strife in the church.” I pointed out to him that he was proud because he was a novice. He was a new recruit. He had recently been promoted. He was new in the job.
Initially, he did not think he was proud. Neither did he think that he was the source of the contention. Then I pointed out Proverbs 13:10 to him. Only by pride comes contention! There is no way that there would be contention unless there was pride. As soon as he saw the scripture, he capitulated. He sat back and thought through my presentation.
I am glad to say that he “withdrew his horses” and the conflict in the church came to an abrupt end. The spirit of pride manifests as contention and quarrelling. If you are wise and understand God’s ways, prove it by living a peaceful life, doing good works with the humility that comes from wisdom.
One of the most important verses you must remember is: “Only by pride cometh contention: but with the well advised is wisdom” (Proverbs 13:10).
Mature out of conflicts! Have no contention! Have no one in your life with whom you have a quarrel. Live peaceably with all men. That is wisdom and that is humility. You must only have conflict with people who, like Adolf Hitler, bring the war to your doorstep, making it unavoidable for you to fight back and defend yourself.