Strife

Proverbs 16:28 A froward man sows strife: and a whisperer separates chief friends. 

This proverb describes two destructive types of people: the froward man (a person who is perverse, deceitful, or habitually difficult) and the whisperer (a gossip or backbiter who operates in secret). Both are agents of division and conflict.

‘A froward man…’ The word “froward” refers to someone who is morally crooked – twisting truth, stirring up arguments, and creating division. This kind of person doesn’t seek peace; instead, they thrive on conflict, tension, and drama. Their words and actions plant seeds of discord, often turning people against one another.

‘A whisperer…’ The whisperer operates subtly and privately. Through gossip, slander, or half-truths, they chip away at trust between even the closest of companions. Long-standing friendships can be destroyed by a single whisper spoken with malicious intent. Whisperers often appear innocent on the surface, but their words carry deep, relational damage.

‘Sows strife.’ Four examples of sowing strife: The princes of Ammon (2Sam. 10:3). They sowed strife by falsely accusing David’s messengers of being spies, turning a gesture of kindness into an act of war. Their suspicious and perverse thinking led to a conflict between nations. Ziba (2Sam. 16:3). He manipulated King David with lies about Mephibosheth to gain favour and property. His deceit sowed strife and confusion during a time of national crisis, breaking trust and loyalty. The Chaldeans (Dan. 3:8-13). These men accused Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego of defying the king’s command. Their motivations were likely rooted in jealousy and pride, and their actions stirred conflict that led to the fiery furnace. Herodias (Mark 6:19-20). Offended by John the Baptist’s rebuke of her immoral relationship, Herodias harboured a grudge and orchestrated a plot against him. Her scheming sowed strife in Herod’s court and ultimately led to John’s unjust execution.

Strife doesn’t arise on its own, it is sown like seeds by those who harbour bitterness, pride, or selfish ambition. Whether through open perversity or whispers, such people divide families, ruin friendships, and damage communities. God calls His people to be peacemakers, not strife-sowers. As Proverbs 6:16-19 says, among the things the Lord hates is “he who sows discord among brothers.” Let us be careful with our words and motives, choosing instead to speak truth in love, protect relationships, and promote unity wherever possible. “Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God” (Matt. 5:9).