Starting a quarrel is like breaching a dam; so drop the matter before a dispute breaks out.

Proverbs 17:14

For Meditation

Going on the offensive is an excellent strategy for physical warfare. The most lethal blow is always the sneak attack. In relationships, however, it is destructive, particularly, when you employ sneaky tactics. You build distrust and dismantle confidence in one another. Worse of all, it is never-ending. No one takes a blow lying down. They fight back, not only to defend themselves but to win the battle and take control. And who does not salivate when power stares them in the face? So, when is it going to end unless Christ is invited to reign over the heart and mind? But believe me, that is not an easy choice when adrenaline is pumping.  

Proverbs 17:14 has this warning for us this morning.  

“Starting a quarrel is like breaching a dam;

    so drop the matter before a dispute breaks out.”

The Message puts it this way. 

“The start of a quarrel is like a leak in a dam,

    so, stop it before it bursts.”

I do not know what you are going to do today because you are hurt and angry. Please close your eyes and take a deep breath. Ask yourself these questions. 

Is it worth it? Is he or she worth it? Is it God-honoring? Will Christ applaud me? Isn’t His honor worthier than anything I stand to lose or gain by taking him or her on?

Paul asked the Corinthians concerning disputes in 1 Cor. 6:7-8. 

“Wouldn’t it be far better to just take it, to let yourselves be wronged and forget it? All you’re doing is providing fuel for more wrong, more injustice, bringing more hurt to the people of your own spiritual family” (The Message).

For Christ’s sake, it is more than worth it! So, stop it now before you flood your house with many woes.

Shalom, and good morning.