Weekly Devotional

Our Words Set the Tone

Scripture:  Proverbs 15:1 (NIV)

1 A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.

This is one of the most profound verses in the Bible. It is both profound and practical at the same time. God is trying to tell us that Our Words Set the Tone for peace or confrontation. This verse is a reality in everyday life. I remember my days working in customer service and it was very easy to get into a confrontation with an irate or inconvenienced customer. Often time they would have every right to be upset because something was not done right or to their expectation. They would take it out on me even if I was not the cause of their problem, but I represented the company and I should hear their complaint. It would have been very easy to meet their frustration with a harsh word or a “that’s not my problem answer.” This would have only infuriated them more and inflamed the situation. I always found it best to respond in a way that compassionately diffused the situation with a soft, but not condescending, answer. Everyday we face situations where our response can either cause an explosion or ease someone’s frustration. Remember that James 1:19-20 tells us that when we are angry we do not do righteous things. Do not contribute to unrighteous and wrathful behavior when you have an opportunity to turn it away with a gentle answer. If we are right in that situation God will make it known once that situation is diffused, but if we respond harshly then we stir up an emotion that brings sin into the situation.

Challenge:

Watch your words especially your responses to others. Remember that your words will set the tone for peace or confrontation. Do not compromise the truth but present your words in a way that is pleasing to God.

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