Read Proverbs 26:21

Read Proverbs 26:21  Yesterday that we discussed verses 20 and 22.   These verses seem to go together because they talk about a talebearer.  But did you notice that we left out verse 21?  Verse 21 is a little different  from the other two verses.  Verse 21 talks about a contentious person.  A contentious person is a trouble maker.  Have you noticed that it takes two people to quarrel?  One person can't argue with himself.  He must have someone else to fuss with.  But what happens when one person wants to fight, but the other person doesn't want to fight?  Well, there isn't a fight.  If one person is peace-loving, there will not be a problem.  The problem comes when a contentious person starts something.  If the other person is not careful, the fight is on!  Contentious people like to cause trouble.  They like to get someone mad.  They like to stir up trouble.  Solomon uses the example of a fire.  If you take away the wood from the fire, what happens?  Of course, the fire goes out.  The contentious person is like the wood; they like to keep the trouble burning.  They will pick at you and get under your skin and push your hot buttons and get you mad.  That is what they want.  But the way to end trouble is just not to fight at all.  Don't let the troublemaker get to you.  Just stay calm and be nice.  Soon they will be frustrated and go away and take their trouble with them.  Their fire has gone out.  Good for you!