The Tribune

By CARLOS SPENCER

Few things can disrupt the smooth and orderly flow of events more than where there is discord and absence of unity within a group, association, household, political party, church or business organisation.

The most laudable of intentions and objectives can be crushed where there is disharmony within a group which is expected to be productive, united and cohesive. Scripture provides a plethora of references on the subject, some of which I shall quote to indicate our Creator’s position of the matter.

Nothing can stand up to the Living Word of God. Scripture is steadfast, sacrosanct, unshakeable, and triumphant. James 3:16 (KJV) tells us: “For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work.”

Generally speaking, people will cause trouble and do a number of cruel things when they are jealous and selfish. Such is life, but we are reminded of one of life’s realities in Matthew 24:36 (KJV): “But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only.”

Scripture asks us why do we criticise and judge each other when God will eventually judge all of us. (Romans 14:10) We are also told to “be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another.” (Romans 12:10; KJV)

Vengeance belongs to the Lord (Romans 12:19), and Ephesians 6:12 informs us that “we wrestle not against flesh and blood.” Proverbs 21:15 advises that good people are happy when justice is done but corrupt persons are terrified. Jesus admonishes us to “Strive to enter in at the strait gate”. (Luke 13:24; KJV).

We can discern some perspective on the subject of discord and disunity by considering Ecclesiastes 3:8 (KJV) and its implications: “A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace.”

I shall end this commentary by referring to Romans 8:31 (KJV): “What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?” Amen; to God then all things be the glory.