“A soft answer turns away wrath, But a harsh word stirs up anger.” (Proverbs 15:1, NKJV)
You know, it is easy to let our ego’s get the best of us when we are attacked by someone verbally. Too often we allow what others say to us, or about us, to annoy us. When this happens, many times, we feel threatened and respond in ways that we regret later.
Solomon in this proverb reminds us of the power of a “soft” or tender word. He tells us a tender word will turn away anger, but arguing just creates more tension and contention. I remember something my mother told me when I was a teenager, she said, “It’s hard to argue with someone, who won’t argue back.” Momma understood Solomon’s proverb.
Remember the old R&B song sung by Otis Redding, TRY A LITTLE TENDERNESS? The next time someone comes at you with harsh, accusatory words or with an angry spirit, control your emotions and respond with tenderness. Do not let your pride or ego get in the way of your peace. Remember, THERE IS POWER IN A TENDER WORD.