“A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make
tempers flare.” – Proverbs
15:1 NLT
There are times when it doesn’t take much
to cause tempers to flare, but a gentle, kind spirit will defuse any hot
situation. It’s difficult to have a heated exchange with someone who answers
you with gentleness. Self-control plays a major role in this type of situation.
Without it a person can be controlled by whatever is dictating the emotional
climate at that moment.
It’s interesting that the very next verse
speaks of the tongue. Listen to what it says: “The tongue of the wise makes
knowledge appealing, but the mouth of a fool belches out
foolishness.” The New Living Translation uses very descriptive words in this
verse. The two that stand out to me are ‘appealing’ and ‘belches’. One has a
positive connotation, the other quite the opposite. As I mentioned earlier, it
has everything to do with self-control. Being able to hold your tongue rather
than belch out whatever thought runs across your mind is a sign of maturity.
Be aware of the climate of your situation
at all times and keep a cool head regardless of that situation. Some folks may
attempt to bait you into a verbal altercation. Don’t let them. Silently pray
for them and a spirit of calmness to fall over the situation. Then watch God
work. Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing!
Resource:
The Life Application Study Bible.
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