Strife - a contest, a quarrel, discord, contention that sets people at odds and destroys fellowship. This is not from the Lord. Strife is a heart issue, a societal practice that invites chaos. Apart from the Lord my inner reality is strife within myself, an inner discord, no peace, no kindness even towards myself. Surrender takes humility, first to the Lord Jesus, who is the Prince of Peace. The reality is, I live in a fallen world, a world that is not submitted to the Lordship of Jesus Christ. Why expect anything but strife from those who do not know Jesus. I do know the Living God. Lord, search me, bring the peace of God in my surrendered heart for a world full of strife.
Old Testament scriptures were written to the people of that time period. While I read them and take application from them, I understand they are written for me, not necessarily to me. So I look to the New Testament for insight. Luke 12:58 Jesus instructs to reconcile, settle matters with your enemy to prevent being delivered to the judge and cast into prison. Stop striving with God and man, surrender, be reconciled to God before the judgment day. Today is the day of salvation, the ability to surrender to Jesus and be saved for life everlasting.