SCRIPTURE
A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger (Proverbs 15:1 NIV).
WORD OF ENCOURAGEMENT
In the majority of conversations, the ability to speak softly and calmly can be the very element that controls how the discussion turns out. Even in heated disagreements, gentle words can bring everything back into order and keep all those involved calm. The art of offering a soft answer in these situa- tions can come more easily for some than others, but regardless, the one who can do so is the one who typically dictates the outcome. Leaning toward the side of harshness only adds to the problem and usually creates further offenses. Additionally, offering a soft answer is also a mannerly and Christlike thing to do. It may not be always possible to bring such a gentle word in every circumstance, but it is a skill one should practice when at all possible. Ask God to help you be a person who can speak gently when needed and enable hearts to be changed and anger abated by the gracious words that come from your mouth.
Taken from The Daily Decree devotional book published by Destiny Image. For a complete collection of Brenda Kunneman’s daily decrees, click here to order The Daily Decree.