Proverbs 15:1 New Living Translation (NLT)
“A gentle answer deflects anger,
but harsh words make tempers flare.”
Is it better to argue with someone or
have a pleasant exchange? The obvious
answer, unless you thrive on conflict, is a pleasant exchange. It is much easier to deflect an angry
confrontation when you keep your cool and let passivity rule the
situation. Having a gentle spirit will
generate peace all around you almost like a hedge of protection. We mustn’t allow others to rob us of our
peace and joy. It can vanish so
easily. One ill spoken word can set
things off. Don’t allow it to take
place. The other day we spoke of keeping
the peace “as much as it is up to”
us. You can take control of the most
potentially volatile situation with a gentle spirit and a kind, gentle
demeanor.
As we follow Jesus thru the gospels we
only find one time where he lost his composure. That was in Matthew 21:11-13
when He went into the Temple courts and found vendors selling sacrifices to the
people. According to the Lord, God’s
house had become a den of thieves.
Otherwise, He let nothing “ruffle His feathers”. He was and is our main example of
serenity. We are to strive towards
having a countenance like a placid lake, mirror like in its appearance.
Most people shy away from confrontation
in favor of a peaceful environment.
Speaking a gentle, kind word to an angry person who seems bound and
determined to pick a fight tends to defuse that individual pretty quickly. It’s very difficult to argue with someone who
exudes a passive nature. It would be
like someone raising his fists in anger to someone who leaves their hands at
their side. Sure they can pummel the person
into submission, but in the end they’ll feel pretty foolish. Having a kind, gentle spirit will do far more
good for the kingdom of God then screaming and yelling ever would. Choose the path of peace. Until next time, walk with the King and be a
blessing!
Resource: The Application Study Bible –
New Living Translation – Tyndale House Publishing.
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