Quarreling is a common challenge that can disrupt relationships, homes, and communities. The Bible offers guidance on avoiding conflict and pursuing peace. Below are key themes with corresponding Bible verses to reflect on and apply to your life.
Also Read: Bible Verses About Siblings Fighting
Seek Peace Instead of Conflict
God calls us to be peacemakers, encouraging us to pursue harmony in our interactions with others. Choosing peace over conflict demonstrates our love for God and others.
Romans 12:18
“Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone.”
Matthew 5:9
“God blesses those who work for peace, for they will be called the children of God.”
Hebrews 12:14
“Work at living in peace with everyone, and work at living a holy life, for those who are not holy will not see the Lord.”
Proverbs 12:20
“Deceit fills hearts that are plotting evil; joy fills hearts that are planning peace!”
Psalm 34:14
“Turn away from evil and do good. Search for peace, and work to maintain it.”
Control Your Tongue
The Bible teaches us to guard our words, as reckless speech can lead to quarrels. By choosing kind and thoughtful words, we can avoid unnecessary conflict.
Proverbs 15:1
“A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare.”
James 3:6
“And among all the parts of the body, the tongue is a flame of fire. It is a whole world of wickedness, corrupting your entire body. It can set your whole life on fire, for it is set on fire by hell itself.”
Proverbs 21:23
“Watch your tongue and keep your mouth shut, and you will stay out of trouble.”
Colossians 4:6
“Let your conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone.”
Proverbs 18:21
“The tongue can bring death or life; those who love to talk will reap the consequences.”
Practice Patience
Quarreling often arises from impatience or frustration. The Bible emphasizes the importance of patience in fostering understanding and reconciliation.
Proverbs 15:18
“A hot-tempered person starts fights; a cool-tempered person stops them.”
Ecclesiastes 7:9
“Control your temper, for anger labels you a fool.”
James 1:19
“Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry.”
Proverbs 14:29
“People with understanding control their anger; a hot temper shows great foolishness.”
Galatians 5:22-23
“But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!”
Avoid Pride and Embrace Humility
Pride often fuels disagreements, while humility opens the door to understanding and forgiveness. The Bible calls us to humble ourselves and put others before ourselves.
Proverbs 13:10
“Pride leads to conflict; those who take advice are wise.”
Philippians 2:3
“Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves.”
James 4:10
“Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up in honor.”
Proverbs 11:2
“Pride leads to disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.”
1 Peter 5:5
“In the same way, you who are younger must accept the authority of the elders. And all of you, dress yourselves in humility as you relate to one another, for ‘God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.'”
Forgive Quickly
Unforgiveness can breed bitterness and prolong conflict. God commands us to forgive others just as He has forgiven us, bringing healing to relationships.
Ephesians 4:31-32
“Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.”
Matthew 6:14
“If you forgive those who sin against you, your heavenly Father will forgive you.”
Colossians 3:13
“Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others.”
Luke 6:37
“Do not judge others, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn others, or it will all come back against you. Forgive others, and you will be forgiven.”
Proverbs 17:9
“Love prospers when a fault is forgiven, but dwelling on it separates close friends.”
Turn Away from Anger
Anger can quickly lead to quarrels if left unchecked. The Bible encourages us to turn away from anger and seek God’s peace instead.
Proverbs 29:11
“Fools vent their anger, but the wise quietly hold it back.”
Psalm 37:8
“Stop being angry! Turn from your rage! Do not lose your temper—it only leads to harm.”
Ecclesiastes 10:4
“If your boss is angry at you, don’t quit! A quiet spirit can overcome even great mistakes.”
Proverbs 22:24-25
“Don’t befriend angry people or associate with hot-tempered people, or you will learn to be like them and endanger your soul.”
James 1:20
“Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires.”
Rely on God’s Strength
Overcoming quarrels requires strength and wisdom that only God can provide. Trusting in Him helps us navigate conflict with grace and love.
Philippians 4:13
“For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.”
Isaiah 41:10
“Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.”
Psalm 28:7
“The Lord is my strength and shield. I trust him with all my heart. He helps me, and my heart is filled with joy. I burst out in songs of thanksgiving.”
2 Corinthians 12:9
“Each time he said, ‘My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.’ So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me.”
Psalm 46:1
“God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble.”
Also Read: Bible Verses About God Fighting Our Battles
What Does The Bible Say About Quarreling
The Bible teaches us to live in peace with one another and avoid quarreling. It reminds us that quarreling leads to division, anger, and hurt, which are not pleasing to God. In Proverbs 17:14, it says, “Starting a quarrel is like breaching a dam; so drop the matter before a dispute breaks out.” This verse encourages us to let go of arguments before they cause greater problems.
Quarreling often comes from pride, selfishness, or a lack of patience. James 4:1-2 explains, “What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from your desires that battle within you?” Instead of focusing on our own wants, the Bible calls us to humility and love. Philippians 2:3 reminds us, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.”
God wants us to be peacemakers. Jesus said in Matthew 5:9, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” This means we should strive to resolve conflicts peacefully and forgive others as God has forgiven us. Ephesians 4:31-32 encourages us to “get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger” and to “be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”
When disagreements arise, we should respond with gentleness and wisdom. Proverbs 15:1 teaches, “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” Instead of letting our emotions control us, we should pray for God’s help to stay calm and act in love.
In summary, the Bible warns against quarreling and calls us to pursue peace, humility, and forgiveness. By following these teachings, we can reflect God’s love and maintain harmony in our relationships.