August 24
A Gentle
Answer
Proverbs 15:1
A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.
Daily Steps
The ultimate application of the discipline of the tongue (Day 236) is its power to defuse conflict and secure relational peace. This verse provides the new believer with a simple, powerful relational strategy: a gentle answer turns away wrath.
The peace in this principle is found in measured mercy:
The Defusing Power of Gentleness: The proverb presents a clear choice with opposing results. The choice is to give a gentle answer. This is an act of self-control (Day 183) that demonstrates humility (Day 234) and mercy. The effect is immediate and powerful: it turns away wrath, stopping conflict before it escalates.
The Destructive Power of Harshness: The opposite is equally true: a harsh word stirs up anger. A harsh word is spoken quickly (Day 236), often fueled by pride or defensiveness, and it acts as the spark (Day 235) that immediately escalates a situation from disagreement into an emotional fight.
The Result is Tranquility: Choosing a gentle answer is an active step toward living at peace with everyone (Day 220). It prioritizes tranquility and restoration over the need to be right or to retaliate. This choice secures peace for yourself and for your community.
Your peace is secured by controlled gentleness. Embrace the wisdom to always offer a gentle answer, knowing that this simple act of mercy is the most effective tool you possess for turning away wrath and building lasting relational peace.
Reflective Question
Reflect on the last relational difficulty you experienced. Did you use a harsh word that stirred up anger? What is one specific phrase or tone you can practice today to ensure your answer is gentle when you feel defensive or attacked?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I confess my quickness to speak harshly when my pride is hurt. I pray for the wisdom and the heart to always choose a gentle answer. Help me to recognize the destructive power of a harsh word.
Secure my peace today by giving me the self-control and humility to defuse conflict and turn away wrath through Your gentleness. Amen.
