Our proverb for today is Proverbs 15, verse 1.
“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”
To understand this proverb, look at the life of Christ. As the time of Jesus’ crucifixion drew near, Jesus headed to Jerusalem. Certainly to meet the cross. Tired from the long trip, “He sent messengers on ahead, who went into a village of the Samaritans to make arrangements for Him. But the people there refused to welcome Him, because He was heading for Jerusalem.” (Luke 8:52-53)
This upset the apostles. James and John were ready to punch back. They asked Jesus, “Lord, do You want us to call down fire from heaven to consume them?” (54).
Jesus could have crushed the town for their unkindness and mean spirit toward him. What DID he do? Verse 56 tells us, “He and His disciples went on to another village.”
Jesus showed great restraint. He knew that calmness begets calmness, and anger begets anger. The Samaritans started the unkindness, but Jesus did not use that as an excuse to hit back. He broke the cycle of anger. He demonstrated a gentle answer.
It is always up to the mature person, the person of character to break the cycle of anger, to change the tone.
Your response is always your choice.
Lonnie Davis