40+Bible Verses About Arguing with Family

The Bible encourages peaceful communication within families, urging us to speak with kindness and avoid unnecessary arguments.

Arguing with family can be one of the most challenging and emotional experiences in life. Whether it’s a misunderstanding, different perspectives, or long-held disagreements, it can be hard to know how to handle conflicts.

Fortunately, the Bible offers valuable wisdom on how to approach family disputes, offering peace, patience, and understanding as essential elements in maintaining harmony. In this article, we will explore 45 Bible verses that offer guidance on arguing with family members, highlighting key teachings to inspire healthy communication and reconciliation.

Bible Verses About Arguing with Family

1. Be Quick to Listen, Slow to Speak

When disagreements arise, we are often quick to express our own views but slow to listen to others. The Bible encourages us to approach arguments with patience and humility.

Scripture: “My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” (James 1:19, NIV)

Prayer: Dear God, help me to listen with an open heart and speak with kindness when conflicts arise. Guide me in showing patience and understanding in all my relationships.

2. Speak with Love and Kindness

It’s easy to become frustrated and let our emotions control our words during an argument. But the Bible reminds us that words should be spoken with love and grace.

Scripture: “Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.” (Colossians 4:6, NIV)

Prayer: Lord, help me to speak with grace and respect, even when disagreements arise. May my words bring peace and healing to my family.

3. Avoid Sowing Discord Among Family Members

Arguments can sometimes escalate into division, but the Bible warns against actions that cause strife within families. It’s important to focus on reconciliation rather than causing more conflict.

Scripture: “There are six things the Lord hates, seven that are detestable to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are quick to rush into evil, a false witness who pours out lies and a person who stirs up conflict in the community.” (Proverbs 6:16-19, NIV)

Prayer: Lord, I ask for your help in avoiding behaviors that sow discord among my loved ones. Teach me to promote peace and unity in all our interactions.

4. Forgive One Another

When we argue, it’s easy to hold on to hurt feelings. However, the Bible teaches us to forgive one another as God forgives us. Forgiveness is key to moving past conflict and restoring relationships.

Scripture: “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:32, NIV)

Prayer: God, help me to forgive those who hurt me, just as You have forgiven me. Fill my heart with compassion and mercy.

5. Seek Peace and Pursue It

In every argument, the goal should be peace. The Bible encourages us to make efforts to seek and pursue peace, striving to find a solution that honors God and each other.

Scripture: “Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.” (James 3:18, NIV)

Prayer: Father, help me to seek peace in every situation and to be a peacemaker in my family. Let my actions be a reflection of Your love.

6. Avoid Anger in Conflict

Anger can lead to words and actions we may regret later. The Bible teaches us to manage our anger and resolve conflicts in a calm and gentle manner.

Scripture: “In your anger do not sin: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry.” (Ephesians 4:26, NIV)

Prayer: Lord, help me to control my anger and respond with patience and gentleness, especially when I’m upset. Let me be quick to forgive and seek peace.

7. Clothe Yourself with Humility

Pride can often be a root cause of arguments. When we are proud, we may be unwilling to listen or understand others. The Bible calls us to clothe ourselves with humility, which fosters a more peaceful and understanding attitude.

Scripture: “All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, ‘God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.'” (1 Peter 5:5, NIV)

Prayer: God, please give me a humble heart that is open to others. May I listen and understand before I speak and seek to humble myself in all situations.

8. Avoid Overreacting

In arguments, we may sometimes overreact due to emotions. The Bible encourages us to respond in a way that reflects self-control and wisdom.

Scripture: “A fool gives full vent to his anger, but a wise man keeps himself under control.” (Proverbs 29:11, NIV)

Prayer: Lord, grant me the wisdom to respond calmly and wisely in any situation. Help me to exercise self-control when emotions are high.

9. Be Slow to Judge

When disagreements arise, it’s easy to quickly judge the other person’s actions. However, the Bible reminds us to be cautious in judgment and seek understanding before forming opinions.

Scripture: “Do not judge, or you too will be judged.” (Matthew 7:1, NIV)

Prayer: God, help me to refrain from quick judgments and to seek understanding in every situation. Let me approach each conflict with an open mind and heart.

10. Speak the Truth in Love

In family arguments, it’s essential to speak the truth. However, the Bible emphasizes that truth should always be shared in a spirit of love.

Scripture: “Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ.” (Ephesians 4:15, NIV)

Prayer: Father, help me to always speak the truth in a way that is loving and respectful. Let my words build up, not tear down.

11. Seek Reconciliation Over Winning

In an argument, the goal should not be to “win” but to restore harmony and understanding. The Bible emphasizes that reconciliation should always take precedence over proving one’s point.

Scripture: “Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.” (Matthew 5:23-24, NIV)

Prayer: Dear God, help me to prioritize reconciliation over being right. May I always seek to restore peace and unity with my family.

12. Overcome Evil with Good

Sometimes, during arguments, we may feel tempted to retaliate or escalate the conflict. The Bible teaches us to overcome evil with good, responding to negative actions with kindness and compassion.

Scripture: “Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.” (Romans 12:21, NIV)

Prayer: Lord, help me to respond with goodness and love even when faced with conflict. Let my actions bring light to the situation and not fuel more anger.

13. Don’t Let Bitterness Take Root

Arguments can sometimes leave us with bitter feelings toward family members. The Bible warns us that bitterness can take root and cause damage in relationships. It’s essential to let go of any resentment and choose forgiveness.

Scripture: “See to it that no one falls short of the grace of God and that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many.” (Hebrews 12:15, NIV)

Prayer: Father, help me to let go of any bitterness or resentment. Cleanse my heart from negative emotions and fill me with grace and peace.

14. Restore Relationships Gently

When restoring relationships after an argument, it’s important to approach the situation with gentleness. The Bible encourages us to handle conflicts with a spirit of gentleness, avoiding harshness.

Scripture: “Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted.” (Galatians 6:1, NIV)

Prayer: God, help me to restore relationships with gentleness and humility. Let my words and actions reflect Your love and compassion.

15. The Power of the Tongue

The Bible speaks often about the power of words. A simple conversation can either tear down or build up. We must be mindful of how we use our words, especially when in the midst of an argument.

Scripture: “The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.” (Proverbs 18:21, NIV)

Prayer: Lord, help me to be mindful of the words I speak, especially in moments of tension. May my words bring life and peace to my family.

16. Let Peace Rule in Your Heart

The Bible encourages us to let the peace of Christ rule in our hearts, especially during times of conflict. By letting peace reign, we can avoid escalating arguments and maintain harmony within the family.

Scripture: “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.” (Colossians 3:15, NIV)

Prayer: God, let Your peace rule in my heart during conflicts. Help me to respond with a spirit of peace and not let anger take control.

17. Honor Your Parents

Honoring parents is an essential part of family relationships. The Bible teaches children to honor their parents, even during times of disagreement. This principle can help prevent arguments from becoming disrespectful or damaging.

Scripture: “Honor your father and mother, which is the first commandment with a promise.” (Ephesians 6:2, NIV)

Prayer: Lord, help me to honor and respect my parents, even when we disagree. Teach me to approach conflicts with humility and love.

18. Correct with Love

When we need to correct a family member, it’s important to do so with love and gentleness. The Bible encourages us to speak the truth in love, correcting one another with kindness and compassion.

Scripture: “Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently.” (Galatians 6:1, NIV)

Prayer: Lord, give me the wisdom to correct my loved ones gently, with a spirit of love. Help me to approach them in a way that draws them closer to You.

19. Do Not Let Anger Control You

Anger can be a strong emotion during family disagreements, but the Bible encourages us not to let it control us. Instead, we should seek peaceful resolutions that honor God and our family members.

Scripture: “Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry.” (Ephesians 4:26, NIV)

Prayer: Father, help me to manage my anger and seek peace, especially during times of conflict. Let me be quick to forgive and slow to anger.

20. Pursue Understanding

In arguments, it’s easy to become focused on being heard rather than understanding the other person’s perspective. The Bible calls us to pursue understanding and empathy, seeking to see things from each other’s point of view.

Scripture: “The one who has knowledge uses words with restraint, and whoever has understanding is even-tempered.” (Proverbs 17:27, NIV)

Prayer: God, help me to pursue understanding and listen with empathy. Let me seek to understand my family members, rather than just focusing on my own views.

21. Reconcile Before Worship

In the Bible, we are taught that before offering our worship to God, we should reconcile with those we have conflicts with. This shows how much God values reconciliation in family relationships.

Scripture: “Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.” (Matthew 5:23-24, NIV)

Prayer: Lord, I desire to reconcile with my family members before offering worship. Help me to restore any broken relationships and seek peace in all situations.

22. Live in Harmony

Living in harmony with others is essential to maintaining peace in family life. The Bible encourages us to live in harmony with others, especially within the household.

Scripture: “Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.” (Romans 12:16, NIV)

Prayer: Father, help me to live in harmony with my family, showing humility and understanding. Let our relationships be full of peace and unity.

23. Don’t Stir Up Strife

Striving to win an argument can sometimes lead to unnecessary strife. The Bible advises us not to stir up strife or add fuel to the fire, but to work toward peace and reconciliation.

Scripture: “A hot-tempered person stirs up conflict, but the one who is patient calms a quarrel.” (Proverbs 15:18, NIV)

Prayer: God, help me to be patient and avoid stirring up conflict. Let me be a calming presence during disagreements.

24. Listen to Advice

In the midst of a family argument, listening to advice from wise people can help us see things from a different perspective. The Bible encourages us to listen to wise counsel.

Scripture: “Listen to advice and accept discipline, and at the end you will be counted among the wise.” (Proverbs 19:20, NIV)

Prayer: Lord, help me to be open to wise counsel and advice. Teach me to listen carefully and learn from others, especially in times of conflict.

25. Restore Peace with Prayer

Prayer is a powerful tool for restoring peace within the family. When conflict arises, we can bring our concerns to God in prayer and ask for His guidance and peace.

Scripture: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” (Philippians 4:6, NIV)

Prayer: Father, I bring my family before You and ask for Your peace in our relationships. Guide us through conflicts and help us to restore harmony.

26. Humble Yourself in Arguments

In the heat of an argument, humility can help defuse the situation. The Bible teaches us to humble ourselves and seek peace rather than insisting on our own way.

Scripture: “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.” (James 4:10, NIV)

Prayer: Lord, help me to humble myself during arguments and seek peace rather than being stubborn. Let my heart be softened, and guide me to reconciliation.

27. Be Quick to Listen, Slow to Speak

In arguments with family, it’s important to listen more than we speak. The Bible encourages us to be slow to anger and quick to listen, which can prevent misunderstandings and help resolve conflicts.

Scripture: “My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” (James 1:19, NIV)

Prayer: God, help me to be a good listener. Let me take time to hear my family’s perspective before responding, and let my words be measured with kindness.

28. Love Covers a Multitude of Sins

When family members argue, it’s important to remember that love can cover a multitude of sins. Love is patient, forgiving, and willing to overlook offenses for the sake of unity.

Scripture: “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.” (1 Peter 4:8, NIV)

Prayer: Lord, fill my heart with love that covers over misunderstandings and mistakes. Help me to forgive my family and restore peace in our relationships.

Bible Verses About Everlasting Life

29. Pray for Your Family

When we face conflicts, it’s powerful to pray for our family. Prayer helps us let go of anger and brings God’s peace into our hearts. It also opens the door for healing and restoration in relationships.

Scripture: “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.” (1 Timothy 2:1-2, NIV)

Prayer: Father, I pray for peace in my family. Help us to understand each other better and heal any brokenness in our relationships. Let Your will be done in our lives.

30. Maintain Your Integrity

In the midst of family disagreements, maintaining integrity is essential. The Bible encourages us to act with honesty and fairness, which can lead to trust and reconciliation.

Scripture: “The righteous man walks in his integrity; his children are blessed after him.” (Proverbs 20:7, NIV)

Prayer: God, help me to uphold integrity in all of my interactions. Let my actions reflect Your truth and righteousness, especially during times of conflict.

31. Be Kind and Compassionate

Even during arguments, kindness and compassion can help defuse tension. The Bible calls us to be compassionate toward one another, especially when emotions run high.

Scripture: “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:32, NIV)

Prayer: Lord, teach me to be kind and compassionate, especially when things get difficult. Help me to forgive and move forward with love and grace.

32. Avoid Harsh Words

Harsh words can escalate an argument and cause long-lasting damage. The Bible teaches that gentle words can turn away anger and promote peace.

Scripture: “The tongue of the wise brings healing.” (Proverbs 12:18, NIV)

Prayer: Father, help me to use gentle and healing words when I speak. Let my words bring peace, not harm, to my family.

33. Seek Peace, Not Division

When disagreements arise, it’s crucial to focus on finding peaceful solutions, rather than allowing conflict to divide the family. The Bible calls us to be peacemakers, working to restore unity.

Scripture: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” (Matthew 5:9, NIV)

Prayer: Lord, make me a peacemaker in my family. Help me to seek reconciliation and healing, rather than division and strife.

34. Honor Each Other in Conflict

Even in moments of disagreement, we should honor each other as family members. The Bible teaches that respect for one another is vital, and it should never be lost, even during arguments.

Scripture: “Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.” (Romans 12:10, NIV)

Prayer: God, help me to always show respect to my family, even when we disagree. Teach me to honor and love them, reflecting Your love in all situations.

35. Rejoice in Unity

In family life, unity is a source of joy. Even after an argument, it’s important to rejoice in the restoration of unity and the strength of the family bond. The Bible teaches us to rejoice when peace is restored.

Scripture: “How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!” (Psalm 133:1, NIV)

Prayer: Father, I rejoice in the unity of my family. Thank You for helping us overcome our differences and grow closer together through Your love.

---

36. Speak the Truth in Love

Truth can sometimes be uncomfortable, especially during arguments, but speaking the truth in love is essential for maintaining healthy relationships. The Bible encourages us to speak the truth, but to do so with kindness and respect.

Scripture: “Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of him who is the head, that is, Christ.” (Ephesians 4:15, NIV)

Prayer: Lord, help me to speak the truth with love. Let my words be gentle, but also honest, so that they build up rather than tear down.

37. Encourage One Another

Even in the midst of disagreements, encouraging each other is essential. The Bible encourages us to build each other up with words of encouragement, which can help heal wounds caused by arguments.

Scripture: “Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” (1 Thessalonians 5:11, NIV)

Prayer: Father, let me be an encourager to my family. Help me to speak words that lift up and bring peace to our relationships.

38. Let Your Speech Be Seasoned with Grace

During family arguments, it’s important to let our speech be full of grace. Grace-filled words have the power to soften hearts and heal wounds.

Scripture: “Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.” (Colossians 4:6, NIV)

Prayer: God, help me to speak with grace, especially in difficult conversations. Let my words bring healing, peace, and understanding.

39. Guard Your Heart

Our words and actions come from the condition of our hearts. The Bible teaches us to guard our hearts, ensuring that bitterness, anger, or malice do not influence our words or actions.

Scripture: “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” (Proverbs 4:23, NIV)

Prayer: Lord, guard my heart and cleanse it of any negative emotions. Help me to respond with kindness and compassion, even when conflict arises.

40. Bear with One Another

Sometimes, family members may say or do things that irritate us. The Bible encourages us to bear with one another, showing patience and understanding in all situations.

Scripture: “Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” (Colossians 3:13, NIV)

Prayer: Lord, help me to bear with my family and forgive them, just as You have forgiven me. Teach me to show patience and love in every situation.

41. Seek God’s Wisdom

In times of family conflict, we can seek God’s wisdom to navigate through difficult situations. The Bible promises that God gives wisdom generously to those who ask.

Scripture: “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.” (James 1:5, NKJV)

Prayer: Father, I seek Your wisdom in handling conflicts within my family. Guide me in my decisions and help me to respond wisely.

42. Don’t Let Conflict Define You

Disagreements with family don’t need to define the relationship. The Bible calls us to focus on the overall love and unity of the family rather than letting one argument damage the bond forever.

Scripture: “Let all that you do be done in love.” (1 Corinthians 16:14, ESV)

Prayer: Lord, help me to focus on love rather than allowing conflict to define our relationship. Let Your love guide us through all challenges.

43. Focus on Restoration, Not Retaliation

In family disputes, our goal should always be restoration and not retaliation. The Bible calls us to be peacemakers and to seek reconciliation, not revenge.

Scripture: “Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone.” (Romans 12:17, NIV)

Prayer: Lord, help me to focus on restoration, not retaliation. Guide me to seek peace and reconciliation in my family relationships.

44. Ask for Forgiveness

If we are in the wrong, it’s important to humbly ask for forgiveness. The Bible encourages us to apologize when necessary, acknowledging our mistakes and seeking reconciliation.

Scripture: “Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you, leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.” (Matthew 5:23-24, NIV)

Prayer: Lord, if I have hurt my family, please show me where I need to ask for forgiveness. Help me to humble myself and seek reconciliation.

45. Cultivate a Spirit of Peace

A spirit of peace is essential in resolving family conflicts. The Bible teaches us to actively pursue peace in all areas of life, especially with our loved ones.

Scripture: “Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.” (Hebrews 12:14, NIV)

Prayer: Lord, help me to cultivate a spirit of peace in my heart. May peace guide my actions and words, especially in moments of conflict.

Key Insight

1. What does the Bible say about arguing with family? The Bible encourages us to approach arguments with humility, patience, and love, seeking peace and reconciliation.

2. How can I avoid arguments in my family? By practicing good communication, listening with respect, and choosing to forgive, you can avoid many unnecessary conflicts.

3. Is it okay to argue with my family? Arguments are a natural part of relationships, but the Bible teaches us to handle them with grace, forgiveness, and a focus on peace.

4. What should I do if my family member won’t listen to me? Pray for patience and understanding, and seek to communicate respectfully, always focusing on reconciliation and not winning the argument.

5. How can I make peace after an argument? Seek forgiveness, apologize if necessary, and show love and understanding to rebuild trust and harmony.

6. How does the Bible help in resolving family conflicts? The Bible offers principles of love, forgiveness, and humility that guide us in resolving conflicts and restoring relationships.

Conclusion

Family arguments are a natural part of any relationship, but they don’t have to lead to lasting damage. By following the biblical principles outlined in this article, you can approach conflicts with a peaceful and loving heart, always striving for understanding and reconciliation. Let the wisdom from the Bible guide your interactions and bring healing to your family relationships.