The Spirit said, “Better is a dry morsel with quietness, Than a house full of feasting with strife” (Proverbs 17:1). Some Christians, as well as others, have homes filled with strife. They do not lack for any material goods, nor bickering. The husband is overbearing on the wife (cf. 1 Peter 3:7). The wife is insubordinate toward the husband (cf. Ephesians 5:22-24). Misery is the order of the day.

More often than not, a strife-filled home is the result of selfishness. One spouse is engrossed in what is best for self–maybe both have this attitude. The years go by and bitterness sets in (cf. Colossians 3:19). Then comes indifference. How many homes would give all they have to replace strife with quietness?

All you need do is give yourself. Follow the Spirit’s instructions to “let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interest, but also for the interests of others” (Philippians 2:3-4). The contentions and outbursts of wrath did not get there overnight, and they will not go away that soon. It takes a stedfast commitment to changing attitudes and actions in the home. Prayer and patience are needed. Study and selflessness is required.

The consequence of not being dedicated to a change in the home is damnation. The one who brings the strife will be lost, and perhaps the spouse and children too.,How is your home? Are you longing for “a dry morsel with quietness” and loathing the “feasting with strife”? Do something about it now!

Steven F. Deaton