What’s the Harm?

(Proverbs 3:30 KJV)  Strive not with a man without cause, if he have done thee no harm.

The first reason to avoid contention is there may be no legitimate reason.  The second gets more specific.  Has this person really “done” (1580) you “harm” (7463).  Remember when we were kids we used to chant,

“Sticks and stones may break my bones but words can never hurt me.”

As we get older we realize that is not strictly true.  Words can hurt us emotionally.  Words can ruin our reputation.  Words can poison our opportunities.  The question is not, was it just words?  The question is, “Did it do any real damage?”

Even then remember that the standard for believers is forgiveness and turning the other cheek. 

So?  Can we contend with people?  Yes.  But I would suggest you run this double check.  And I would recommend that you forgive and move on, but I am not in your situation.  Pray and listen.