Biblical Affirmative Action

(Proverbs 26:21 KJV)  As coals are to burning coals, and wood to fire; so is a contentious man to kindle strife.

In this verse we have a Biblical example of affirmative action.  Notice that Solomon speaks here of a “contentious” (4066) “man” (376).  This is the same word that is used repeatedly of the nagging wife.  When it comes to sin and righteousness, gender knows no bounds.

I have experienced my share of being nagged.  We all have.  I respond different ways on different days.  I find it very easy to succumb to the temptation to strike back.  I feel an overwhelming need to defend myself.  I call this a temptation advisedly.   That kind of response is sin.  This is the situation that Jesus is talking about when He said,

(Matthew 5:39 KJV)  But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil: but whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.

This is for our everyday relationships.  It is an attitude we are to have with people around us, not with the robber coming through the window.

So?  Resist evil by turning the other cheek and not sinning.  An added benefit is that it will drive them crazy, but that is an unworthy motive.