Proverbs 15:1 - A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.

Proverbs 15:1 teaches us the power of a gentle response. The wise King Solomon tells us that "a soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." When someone comes to us in anger, our natural instinct is often to respond back with equal harshness and intensity. We want to defend ourselves or put the other person in their place. But Solomon advises a different approach - respond with gentleness, with a "soft answer." This unexpected reaction can diffuse the other person's anger and prevent the situation from escalating. On the other hand, if we respond to wrath with wrath by using harsh words, it will only stir up more anger and make the conflict worse. The wisdom of this proverb is confirmed by experience. Very often a gentle response, even in the face of anger, can calm emotions and lead to a more productive discussion. It's not about being weak or non-confrontational, but about being wise and controlled in our response. As followers of Jesus, we should especially embrace this wisdom. Gentleness is a fruit of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:23). Jesus himself demonstrated gentleness, even with those who opposed him. As we grow in Christlike character, we should become people who are able to give a soft answer, even when tempted to respond harshly. This proverb reminds us that gentleness is powerful and persuasive. In a world of harshness and outrage, the gentle wisdom of God's people should stand out. May we be those who turn away wrath and diffuse anger by the power of a gentle word.

The wisdom of Proverbs 15:1 is simple yet profound. With the Spirit's help, each of us can grow in giving a soft answer when we're tempted to respond harshly. But it's not always easy to do! Our pride, our self-righteousness, our past hurts, and our desire for control can all make us want to lash out when someone comes to us in anger. We want to put them in their place or prove that we're right. In the heat of the moment, gentleness feels like weakness. But this proverb reminds us that gentleness is actually a strength. It has the power to turn away wrath. Responding gently requires great self-control, wisdom, and trust in God. It means staying focused on honoring the Lord and pursuing peace rather than just defending ourselves. Ultimately, a soft answer flows from a heart that has been softened by the grace and gentleness of Jesus. When we understand how patient and gentle God has been with us, it empowers us to extend that same gentleness to others. Of course, there may be times when a stronger response is needed, especially if we're dealing with an abusive or dangerous person. Gentleness is not the same as being a doormat. But in most everyday conflicts and tense conversations, a gentle answer is usually the wisest approach. What might this look like practically? It could mean staying calm and refusing to raise our voice, even if the other person is yelling. It could mean kindly acknowledging the other person's hurt or frustration, even if we think they're overreacting. It could mean apologizing for our part in the conflict, even if we feel the other person is mostly at fault. It could mean gently but firmly restating our perspective, while also affirming our care for the other person and desire for a peaceful resolution. As we grow in this kind of Christlike gentleness, we'll be able to de-escalate conflicts, defuse tense situations, and display the power of the gospel to a watching world. May the Lord empower us to be people of gentleness, for his glory and the good of others.

Gracious God, thank you for the wisdom of your Word. I confess that too often I respond to anger and conflict with harshness rather than gentleness. My pride and my desire for control lead me to lash out and escalate tense situations. Forgive me for the many times I've stirred up anger rather than turning it away. Thank you for your great gentleness and patience with me. You are slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. You respond to my sin and failings with kindness and compassion. Let your gentle heart towards me overflow into gentleness towards others. By the power of your Spirit, help me to stay self-controlled and clear-headed in tense conversations. Give me wisdom to know when to speak and when to stay silent, when to be firm and when to be flexible. May the words of my mouth and the tone of my voice be pleasing in your sight. Make me an instrument of your peace and an ambassador of your reconciling love. I pray this in Jesus' name, Amen.