The Christian's Journey - 8

Introduction: Have you ever had a disagreement or an argument? How far did you go? were you in the right or in the wrong? How does the Lord see us when we are in strife with someone else? What is our responsibility?

Gilead

Text: "Thou hast shewed thy people hard things: thou hast made us drink the wine of astonishment." Psalms 60:3

1. The Account:
• Genesis 31
2. The Details:
• Gilead means heap of testimony; hard, rocky region.
• Gilead is a mountainous region east of Jordan.
• The physical nature of the country affected the character of its people, whoever retained nomadic, pastoral habits Gilead's location kept its people in the background in Israel's history.
• Elijah was from here: in clothing, abrupt manner, and active energy, his country's characteristics are reflected.
• Jordan River is to the east.
• Valley of Heshbon is to the south, and the river Hieromax is to the north.
• It is noted for its balm, collected from trees, which is worth twice its weight in silver.
• This is where Jacob and Laban made their covenant.
3. The Application
• Gal 5:20 strife is a work of the flesh.
• Covenant was made here because of the years of strife between Jacob and Laban.

To have strife:

• be wrathful (Prov 15:18)
• be forward (16:28)
• love transgression (17:19)
• be scornful (22:10)
• keep company of scornful
• be a talebearer (26:20)
• be contentious (26:21)
• be angry (29:22)
• force wrath (30:33)
• be carnal (1 Cor 3:3)
• be proud (1 Tim 6:4)
• be envious (James 3:16)

To keep away from strife:

• be slow to anger (15:18)
• leave off contention (17:14)
• be honorable (20:3)
• cast out scorner (22:10)
• don't be a talebearer (26:20)
• walk honestly (Rom 13:13)
• be lowly in mind (Phil 2:3)
• esteem others better than self (Phil 2:3)

Proverbs 26:17 "He that passeth, and meddleth with strife belonging not to him, is like one that taketh a dog by the ears."

       4. The Recommendations:

When you find yourself in a situation of strife with another. . .

• Jer 32:27 you can turn to the Lord in humility, repentance, and obedience.
• 2 Cor 10:13 let God prove Himself faithful.
• Ps 94:17-19, 22 let God be your help
• Jn 14:1, 16, 18, 27 let God care for you
• Jer 8:22 put yourself in the position where God can apply that "balm of Gilead" to your spirit and soul.

Conclusion: When you find yourself at that place in your Christian walk that is difficult to traverse and/or scale, face the opposition (in yourself and others) head on. Take responsibility for your part, forgive the other for their part, and let God apply the balm in His care and protection of His child.

GB Essie