GENTLE WORDS

Proverbs 15:1 NLT A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare.

We’ve probably all been in a situation where something has been said which has hurt us, or made us cross, and we may have spoken angry words. They’ve bubbled up, and out they came and we probably dug ourselves a hole which was difficult to get out of!

So how do we stop ourselves falling in the hole? God is asking us to tap into the fruit of the Holy Spirit to give us His patience, love and understanding and everything else we might need before we say something we might regret. 

Proverbs 15:4 NKJV A wholesome (gentle) tongue is a tree of life, But perverseness in it breaks the spirit. Our gentle words can build people up and bring life to a person or situation or a relationship which is what we’re all aiming for.😊 Perverse words are obstinate, unreasonable, stubborn, turned away from what is right and good. Lord help us not to be like that!

We know God’s word teaches us and it’s good to remember what it says or we might carry on in our own, maybe sometimes not so sweet, way! Even if we feel justified in our attitude, it still won’t change what God is asking of us!

Proverbs 15:21 The wise are known for their understanding, and pleasant words are persuasive.

Proverbs 15:24 Kind words are like honey sweet to the soul and healthy for the body (and bones).

Proverbs 10:21 The words of the godly encourage many …

Proverbs 18:21 The tongue can bring death or life, those who love to talk will reap the consequences.

God has such a lot to say about our words and what lovely things they can produce!😊 But just in case any of us has blown it recently, and our words haven’t brought life, please remember we have a forgiving God who we can run to, to ask for forgiveness. His mercy endures forever!

So let’s ask the Holy Spirit to help us set a guard over our tongues before there is a next time, so we’re ready and determined to give a gentle answer with His supernatural help. In Jesus’ name. Amen.