Biblical Answer

The Impact of War on Our Relationships with Others

The Root Cause of War and Conflict

The question of where wars and fights come from among us is answered by the Bible in James 4:1-3. The passage reveals that the root cause of war and conflict is not external, but internal. It is our own desires that battle within us that lead to conflict with others. Our desires for pleasure, lust, murder, covetousness, and fighting are all rooted in our self-centeredness and sin. This internal struggle affects our relationships with others, leading to fights and quarrels.

The Impact of War on Personal Relationships

War and conflict have a devastating impact on personal relationships. In the context of marriage, war can lead to broken relationships and even hostility. The Bible warns that when we are not united, everything falls apart. Jesus said that every house divided against itself will not stand. This is also true in our relationships with others. When we are at war with ourselves, it is difficult to maintain healthy relationships with others. The Bible teaches us to put on the armor of God and to stand firm against the enemy, but it also reminds us to be gentle and kind to one another, bearing with each other in love.

The Impact of War on Society

The impact of war on society is also significant. When we are at war with ourselves and with others, it can lead to societal ills such as crime, violence, and corruption. The Bible teaches us that we are to be peacemakers and to strive for peace and reconciliation. However, when we are at war, it is difficult to achieve this goal. The war on children, in particular, has had a devastating impact on society. The staggering number of abortions since Roe v. Wade is a testament to the destructive power of war. The Bible reminds us that we are to be salt and light in the world, but when we are at war, we lose our effectiveness in this regard. We must strive to be peacemakers and to promote peace and reconciliation in our relationships with others and in society as a whole.