"There are six things the Lord hates, seven that are detestable to him… a person who stirs up conflict in the community."
— Proverbs 6:16,19 (NIV)
Among the sins God hates, sowing discord stands out. It is not merely unfortunate—it is detestable to Him. Why? Because discord attacks the unity of the body, the peace of the family, and the integrity of God's people. It plants seeds of division, and division always weakens what God desires to strengthen.
What Makes Sowing Discord Sinful?
To sow discord is to intentionally or carelessly create division—to stir arguments, breed mistrust, or set people against one another. This can happen through:
Spreading rumors or half-truths.
Stirring drama under the disguise of "concern."
Repeating words meant to separate friends or families.
Secretly fueling offense or suspicion.
"A perverse person stirs up conflict, and a gossip separates close friends."
— Proverbs 16:28 (NIV)
Those who sow discord often work subtly, letting their words poison relationships quietly, until unity collapses. But no matter how quiet the whisper, the result is the same: strife, offense, and disunity.
Why It Matters
God loves peace. He blesses unity. Jesus prayed for His followers to be one—just as He and the Father are one (John 17:21). To sow discord is to work against the very prayer of Christ.
"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God."
— Matthew 5:9 (NIV)
If you use your tongue to tear apart what God wants joined together—whether a marriage, friendship, church, or family—you are aligning yourself with Satan, not with the Spirit. Division is one of his favorite tools.
Reflection Questions
Have I repeated stories or words that caused others to turn against someone?
Do I enjoy stirring controversy or drama, even under the label of honesty?
Have I allowed offense to spread through my influence instead of seeking reconciliation?
Have I spoken when I should have remained silent?
Have I prioritized being "right" over being a peacemaker?
Challenge: Be a Peacemaker, Not a Divider
You can either be a bridge or a wedge. Choose to be a person whose words bring healing, not conflict. Before speaking, ask: "Will this unite or divide?" God blesses those who build up, not those who break down.
"Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification."
— Romans 14:19 (NIV)
Prayer of Repentance
"Father, forgive me for any way I have stirred up division—through gossip, slander, or careless speech. Cleanse my heart of pride and help me to seek peace in all things. Make me an agent of unity, not conflict. Let my words bind wounds, not cause them. Use my voice to bring healing, truth, and reconciliation. In Jesus' name, Amen."