Proverbs 10:12 (KJV):
“Hatred stirreth up strifes: but love covereth all sins.”
This short verse gives a powerful message. It reminds us that our hearts either cause harm or bring peace. When we let hatred grow, it leads to conflict. But when we choose love, we bring healing and unity. The Bible is full of verses that support this same truth.
What Does “Hatred Stirreth Up Strifes” Mean?
Hatred is more than just feeling upset. It is a deep and lasting anger that pushes people apart. Hate can lead to gossip, bitterness, division, and even violence.
Genesis 4:8 (KJV):
“And Cain talked with Abel his brother: and it came to pass, when they were in the field, that Cain rose up against Abel his brother, and slew him.”
Cain’s hatred for Abel stirred up strife to the point of murder. It all began with jealousy and led to destruction.
Titus 3:3 (KJV):
“For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient... living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another.”
This verse reminds us of what life looks like without the love of Christ—full of hate and division.
Galatians 5:19–20 (KJV):
“Now the works of the flesh are manifest... hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies.”
Hatred is listed as one of the sinful works of the flesh. It always leads to strife.
But Love Covereth All Sins
Love does not pretend wrongs don’t exist—it forgives them. It lets go of offenses and chooses peace over revenge.
1 Peter 4:8 (KJV):
“And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins.”
This is almost a direct echo of Proverbs 10:12. Love is patient, full of mercy, and covers faults rather than exposing them.
Colossians 3:13 (KJV):
“Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.”
Forgiveness is at the heart of love. This verse reminds us to forgive just as Jesus forgave us.
Ephesians 4:32 (KJV):
“And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.”
Kindness and forgiveness are acts of love. When we love, we mirror God's heart.
Luke 23:34 (KJV):
“Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.”
Even while being crucified, Jesus responded with love. His example teaches us to forgive and not hold grudges.
Romans 5:8 (KJV):
“But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.”
God’s love is sacrificial. He didn’t wait for us to be perfect—He covered our sins while we were still broken.
Why This Verse Matters Today
We all have moments when we feel hurt or angry. The question is—will we let hatred take root, or will we choose love?
Real-Life Application
- In marriage: Love covers harsh words and mistakes through forgiveness.
- In parenting: Love chooses patience over yelling.
- In church: Love helps people work through disagreement without dividing.
- In friendship: Love lets go of grudges and moves forward.
Matthew 5:44 (KJV):
“But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you...”
Even when people mistreat us, we are called to love. This love is what makes believers different from the world.
Romans 12:18 (KJV):
“If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.”
Living in peace requires love. It's not always easy, but it’s always right.
Final Thoughts
Proverbs 10:12 gives us a choice. We can feed hatred and see conflict grow, or we can act in love and bring peace. Love doesn’t erase truth, but it forgives, heals, and covers sin with grace.
Let’s live out the love of Christ in our homes, churches, and communities. When we choose love, we reflect the heart of God.
