Proverbs 15:1 (CB)

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

HELPING THE ANGRY. The first way to help an angry person is to surround them with nonangry speech. Abrasive words create more anger. In fact, a single harsh word can be a spark to stir up a blazing fire or rage. The word harsh means painful. When we argue, our words can have two quite different purposes. We can speak to simply make the truth clear (which may be painful to hear), or we can speak specifically to inflict pain, to make the other person feel foolish or bad. Of course we tell ourselves and others that the former motive is what drives us, but usually it is the latter. And one zinger word can destroy a relationship and put up a wall of bitterness that lasts years or a lifetime. In contrast, the gentle answer means speaking patiently, tenderly, as affirmatively as possible, and always calmly. One of the best ways to help an angry person learn patience is to surround him with patient people. A gentle answer must still be truthful (Eph 4:15) but filled with evident concern and no ill will. When was the last time you had an argument? What were your motives? Were your words gentle?

Prayer: Lord, Even when you are stern with me, you overwhelm me with love. Let me be the same with everyone. Amen.