“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” ~Proverbs 15:1

“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” ~Proverbs 15:1

That is about as ‘no-brainer’ as it gets. But why is it so hard to remember this? It’s so easy to fly off the handle when things don’t go our way. It takes discipline and maturity to take that deep breathe before we react.

I recall marveling at the patience of my Grandma - I don’t believe that I ever saw her angry. She was the wife of a pastor, so I know there were MANY times that she had to bite her tongue. But that struggle never was betrayed in her actions or on her beautiful face. She truly reflected Jesus.

This proverb overflows with wisdom. Sound advice in the workplace, between spouses, family members and friends, in school. In the political and financial arena. At Walmart. Yep, everywhere.

Almighty God, give us the wisdom and patience of Jesus. Let us know when to hold our tongue so that we can be wise as serpents and gentle as doves [Matthew 10:16]. Give us YOUR words, words of love and compassion so that You might be revealed through us. In Your Son’s precious name, Amen.