Introductory Thoughts
Contention comes when two parties have conflicting desires or points of view and are unwilling to amicably resolve them. Oftentimes, pride hinders either party from admitting their errors or even the possibility of their being partially to blame. Contention ceases in the absence of pride. When Rehoboam, Solomon’s son, became king, the people of God came to him requesting relief from the heavy burden of taxes that had been placed upon them by Solomon. The older men counselled Rehoboam to do as the people requested, but the younger men instructed Rehoboam to reject the wishes of the people. Rehoboam contentiously responded to the people’s request with pride; strife understandably followed (1 Kings 12:1-16).
Devotional Thoughts
-
(For children): Haman was full of pride and became angry because Mordecai (a Jew who worshipped God only) would not bow down to him. Haman caused much strife in the land by wanting to destroy all the Jews (Esther 3:1-6).
-
(For everyone): Have you ever witnessed contention where both sides were wrong? Why would neither side admit that they were wrong? Why would neither side suffer the wrong to bring peace?
-
If contention comes by pride, what does this suggest about most relationship problems? Why is their strife between a husband and wife, or a parent and a child?
Prayer Thoughts
- Ask the Lord to help you avoid the sin of pride.
- Ask God to show you when to suffer the wrong to bring peace.
Song
Have Thine Own Way, Lord!
