Proverbs 21:19

The book of Proverbs gives us insights into so many different areas of life. The book gives us instruction on how to live our lives for God. Here is a proverb that gives us insight about relationships in marriage: 

Proverbs 21:19 (NASBStr)

It is better to live in a desert land

Than with a contentious and vexing woman.

Proverbs 21:19 (ESV)

It is better to live in a desert land

than with a quarrelsome and fretful woman.

Alone is better than annoyance!!  That would be the theme of the above proverb.   This isn't the only time that Solomon gives us this warning.  Note the following: 

Proverbs 21:9 (NASBStr)

It is better to live in a corner of a roof

Than in a house shared with a contentious woman.

Proverbs 25:24 (NASBStr)

It is better to live in a corner of the roof

Than in a house shared with a contentious woman.

Proverbs 27:15 (NASBStr)

A constant dripping on a day of steady rain

And a contentious woman are alike;

Solomon had over 700 wives and concubines.   So, he knew what it is like to live with someone, in this case a contentious wife, who is difficult.  His teaching here is that we are better off alone, or leaving for a slolitatry moment, than living with, or staying with someone, who is hard to live with.  We don't always think that being separated is a good thing.  But, Solomon gives us the insight that being separate is not only okay, it is advised.   Being alone is better than being an a situation where anger and animosity reign.  It is better to take a walk than to take a swing ... with tongue or the hand.   Don't think of separation in the midst of conflict as a bad thing ... think of it as the wise thing.