Daily Devotions

What our world needs more than anything during these times of conflict is to take on board what  Proverbs 15:1 says, “A gentle answer quietens anger, but a harsh one stirs it up.”

Often, when dealing with issues we have with others, the main difficulty is not actually the situations we are facing, but the way in which we deal with such circumstances. It’s possible to be right and wrong at the same time, right about the problem and wrong about the way in which we are approaching the person about the difficulty between us.

While we all know we are supposed to be gentle, it sometimes can be hard to picture what it actually means to deal with someone in a gentle way? In our rough and rugged individualism, we think of gentleness as weakness, being soft and virtually spineless. Not so! Gentleness includes such enviable qualities as having strength under control, being calm and peaceful when surrounded by a heated atmosphere. Gentleness has the capability of emitting a soothing effect on those who may be angry or otherwise beside themselves. It exhibits tact and gracious courtesy that causes others to retain their self-esteem and dignity.

On every flight that frequent fliers take, they hear the words from the flight attendant: “In an emergency, please make sure your oxygen mask is in place before assisting your child with their mask.”

Have you ever wondered why this instruction is given? Because if we can’t breathe, we can’t help our child, and before you know it, neither of you is breathing. If we cannot control our anger or other emotions, we certainly can’t expect our others to be self-controlled. Throughout the Bible, it is assumed that anger is a part of life, and that there is an appropriate response to it. It is very rare, however, that anger or aggression is a correct response.

Paul to the Galatians 5:22-23 writes, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.”

Lord, we would grow with you

and bring forth fruit

that is pleasing to you

fed by your living water

giving sustenance to others

Lord, we would grow with you. Amen