Gentle Answers
Proverbs 15:1 (NLT) “A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare.
How often does an argument spin out of control based on matching the same energy due to responding to an initial emotional outburst? In today’s society, we are taught to defend ourselves and speak up, and no one is going to spread a lie about me or something I haven’t done.
King Solomon shares something everyone should take heed of. And that is the way you respond to anyone or anything. Remaining calm and responding with a gentle answer deflects anger while maintaining strength and control. Jesus mentions a word that describes maintaining strength and control: meekness.
Matthew 5:5 (NKJV) “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.”
Meekness is the ability to respond to people in the presence of hostility without reflecting the same negative energy, also known as strength under control. Consider this: if you happen to walk into a room and see two people arguing. One person is screaming at the top of their lungs, and the other person remains calm and still responds to their questions or comments. Who do you think is in control? Who do you think is unshakable? Yes. The calm person. That is why Jesus said the Meek shall inherit the earth. If you have a person who is a manager over several people, but they explode in a rage every time one thing appears to be wrong, how long do you think that person will remain a manager?
If you suffer from having an explosive temper, or you feel as though you must defend yourself from constant interruptions from the other person, then you are only looking at things from your perspective. Remember this: everyone has the right to be wrong. Here is the point: listen without interrupting, even though you know the other person is wrong. When they are done, calmly say, “I hear what you are saying. Let me share a different perspective that may give insight into an area you might be misunderstanding.”
When you bring the same negative energy into a discussion, it’s like pouring gasoline on a fire. When the argument is over, you will think, “I can believe what they said to me…”, along with, “I can’t believe what I said to them. I really didn’t mean it.”
God can give you internal peace and wisdom if you ask Him for it.
Be Blessed!
Ron
Ron Cobbs Ministries © Copyright September 15th, 2026, All Rights Reserved