Among the seven things the Lord hates, as recorded in Proverbs 6:16-19, is “…one who sows discord among brethren.” The word hate is a strong one, a word that many do not want to attribute to God. But, it is accurate. It is defined as we use the term today, and is also translated in the American Standard Version using the term “detest.”
It is important to consider what our text reveals — that God is extremely unhappy with anyone who sows discord. While God counsels patience with many who are guilty of sin, there is little forbearance shown for this class of sinner. The apostle Paul exhorted Titus, “But avoid foolish disputes, genealogies, contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and useless. Reject a divisive man after the first and second admonition, knowing that such a person is warped and sinning, being self-condemned” (Titus 3:9-11).
Strife is antithetical to Christian unity. It has no place among those who profess to follow the “Prince of Peace” (cf. Isaiah 9:6). Instead, may we emulate the example of Abraham. Because of his and his nephew Lot’s possessions, the land was not sufficient to support them both. As a result, there “was strife between the herdsmen of Abram’s livestock and the herdsmen of Lot’s livestock” (Genesis 13:7). This was untenable to Abraham. His plea to his nephew is touching, and a worthy example to us: “Please let there be no strife between you and me, and between my herdsmen and your herdsmen; for we are brethren” (8). Abraham’s willingness to accommodate and sacrifice is an attitude worthy of imitation, and will help secure for us God’s love and acceptance.
