March 17, 2018
What does it say?
The wise make peace with truthful and gentle answers, while fools stir up anger through harsh, lying words.
What does it mean?
Calmly speaking the truth can take the fuel away from tense, argumentative situations. That is why the wise person maintains a courteous demeanor and sticks to the actual facts of the situation, making a solution and peace more likely. Wisdom and knowledge are connected yet different. Wisdom is the ability to apply knowledge to life’s situations. The wise seek, acknowledge, and speak what is true. The foolish person, however, lashes out angrily with no regard for the truth or how his words may crush someone else. Meanwhile, the Lord sees the motives and reactions of both types of people.
How should I respond?
We’ve all met people who think that being loud and contentious adds validity to their argument. At times, we may have even been that person. When passions run high, winning the argument at any cost can become a wrong priority. In those situations, it’s important not to lose sight of the truth and the effect of your words and demeanor on the other person. How could a softer response deflect a tense situation you’re facing? Be sure to know the facts before engaging in a heated debate. Pray. Then calmly and wisely talk about the issue rather than argue.