JANUARY 23, Proverbs 15:1

In the opinion of wise men, the hardest thing to control is our tongue. We have seen how anger is easily stirred up by unpleasant words. Fights, court cases and breaking up of friendship are often caused by grievous words. They usually begin with one party saying something angrily and the other party responding in an equally angry manner and soon, it grows into a shouting match and fist fights. This happens among children a lot, doesn’t it?

Children, have you come across people who are always angry with something or somebody. When they shout at you, I am sure you want very much to shout back at them. However, you know that God will not be pleased if you do that. Look at the wise solution given in Proverbs 15:1: "A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.”

The Bible is always right. So, why not put this into practice? Of course you must not pretend but be sincere and desirous of keeping peace with those who are often angry. Remember that God loves even the most bad-tempered people. Remember to give a gentle answer no matter how loud the other party sounds. Your gentleness will achieve much peace.

Jesus set the best example of how to handle an angry crowd. Despite all the unfair accusations, He did not get angry. He was gentle in his replies to questions because He was forgiving. We ought to be like Jesus.

Give some examples of gentle answers when someone shouts at you.

1. I am __________ for hurting your feelings.

2. Next time, I _______________________ do it again.

3. Yes, you are _______________, I must be mistaken.

4. I hope you know that I __________________________ mess up your things.

Thought: I should respond gently and softly to avoid quarrels.

Prayer: Teach me Heavenly Father, to be gentle in my replies to angry and even unreasonable people I meet. It is so easy to get angry but please help me to remember your Word and to practise giving a soft answer instead. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.