Proverbs 15:1 “A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.”
Have you ever been the “mouse in the corner” when a disagreement is raised between prideful individuals? As you watch the escalation of the argument you realize each member is becoming more animated, louder and more foolish with their choice of words. In fact, as the argument escalates, we often hear words of slander and words of cursing. Each party becomes angrier and finally there is no resolve to be found without intervention and mediation from others.
But, when we are privy to a disagreement raised where at least one of the individuals is wise and humble; we see a different path. When the first word of “fight” is spoken, the wise person speaks in truth but answers softly. Even if the one who is out of control blasts again, the soft answer repeated will turn away the wrath of the one who is angry. How can you argue with reason? How can you “fight” with someone who remains calm and refuses to allow emotion to rule their responses?
The next time you are confronted by angry words, think on this prayer from Psalms 19:14 “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in thy sight, oh, LORD my strength and my redeemer.” Be a witness to the difference a soft answer can make and rejoice in the control the Holy Spirit has over the conversation as you allow the LORD to mediate in the angry person’s heart.
Abiding Still
This is so applicable for me in my life now with my almost 4 year old Sammy! I have found (this week especially) that he's been so trying on my patience. I end up "losing it" and yelling instead of taking a deep breath and speaking to him calmly. There are times when I feel the yell is justified and maybe for a brief second, it helps me feel better, but soon after, I feel horrible. (Not to mention he totally feeds off of that temperament!)Thanks for this great reminder!
ReplyDelete