Proverbs 26:21
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As coals are to burning coals, and wood to fire; so is a contentious man to kindle strife.
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Trouble follows some people. They are always having conflicts, debates, fights, grudges, and strife with others. Of course, they blame others. But this proverb declares it to be their fault. Disagreements and quarrels would either not occur or would end quickly, but these contentious troublemakers stir up fights with most everybody (15:18; 29:22; 30:33).
The man or woman that always has difficulties with others wants to blame them. But it is impossible for strife to consistently follow good people, while the rest of the world lives in peace with one another. They must be at fault, because no one can get along with them for very long. Once you identify such persons, they are always the ones at fault.
Consider some lives. They are divorced or have troubled marriages, because they cannot relate to a spouse. Their children despise them, because they were harsh as parents. They have a terrible work history, because they could not get along on the job. They bounce from church to church, because they quickly wear out their welcome. They have few devoted friends, because they argue and fight. No one wants to be around these people.
But at the same time, there are others who get along with everyone, all the time! What makes the difference? It is the difference between a gracious peacemaker and a contentious scorner. The one is approved by God and men; the other is resented by both.
There are two similes in the proverb, as shown by the use of "as." Coals added to burning coals cause a fire to increase. Wood added to a fire makes it hotter and larger. In the same way, men with proud and fighting spirits cause strife and increase fighting wherever they go (13:10). They start arguments, conflicts, and quarrels with most everyone.
Reader! Examine yourself! Are you esteemed and loved by all as a gracious peacemaker? Or are you avoided and marked as a belligerent and critical person that causes problems most places you go? Are you expert at praising others, cooperating, forgiving offences, overlooking faults, and being submissive? Or is your reputation one of dogmatic arguing, resentful attitudes, vengeful conflicts, and an overall lack of mercy? Examine yourself!
God has called His children to be peacemakers. You are to use all your spiritual power to live peaceably with all men (Matt 5:9; Rom 12:18; Eph 4:3; I Thess 5:13; Jas 3:17-18). The fruit of the spirit is love, joy, and peace (Gal 5:22). Godly and wise men will hate a contentious spirit in themselves or anyone else. They will recognize this terrible evil for what it is and avoid such men with all their might. They will promote peace at all times.
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