WORDS

Prov 15:1  A gentle response defuses anger, but a sharp tongue kindles a temper-fire. (Message Bible)

The Book of Proverbs is the wisdom of God and  gives  advise on the proper way to use  our tongue, so let’s look at some of those ways. The scripture  says that a gentle tongue diffuses anger. Why is this?  Picture yourself talking to a person. You have to confront them about negative behaviour. If we speak words of sharp criticism, pointing out their faults and failures, they will immediately put up barriers and resist what we are saying; this is a natural defence that people erect at the first sign of aggression.  Our cutting words will also stir up anger in them and the conversation will descend into a quagmire of accusations.

Whereas if we speak to the person in gentle non aggressive language, directing our words not to their character but to their behaviour we will see their defences come down and the way is now open for us to find a solution to the problem.

Gal 6:1  Friends, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of humility, considering yourself lest you also be tempted.   Paul teaches we can only speak gentle words when we adopt a spirit of humility. This is a way most of us would rather not take because we have to be vulnerable. But if we will humble ourselves and put our trust in God,  He will work through our humility to resolve the situation.  And when we do His grace will flow and bring reconciliation and healing.1 Peter 5:5 All of you be clothed with humility, for”God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble.”   (NKJV)

Meditation Point: God’s Word tells us that confontation can only be successful from a spirit of humility and fully trusting God.

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