Deceit is in the hearts of those who plot evil, but those who promote peace have joy. Proverbs 12:20
A harsh word stirs up anger but a gentle answer turns away wrath. Proverbs 15:1
It is so easy to fall into the trap of following our emotions when hurt or angry. We must ask God for His Holy Spirit to provide the strength it will require to obey His word to offer that gentle answer. He will honor his promise but even if he should harden the heart of the one with whom you struggle, like he did pharaoh toward Moses, you must not allow your heart to be hardened. Only you can control you!
A few weeks ago, in preparation of my approaching hip replacement, I had purchased a few items I thought might assist in my mobility. I didn’t open the Amazon packages right away as I knew I had plenty of time until the surgery and for allotted returns should I decide they wouldn’t work as I imagined. But, as usual, life got away from me and the other day, I told my husband that one or two of the items might not work but I had missed the deadline for returns by one day. He might have been justified in stating anger and frustration to my neglectful spending and scheduling, but instead he calmed my concerns with a sweet, gentle response of “We might find a use for them at some point.” How different that conversation might have sounded had he allowed frustration to ensue. He made me feel loved and cared for and peace reigned in our home.
The next time a friend or loved one does or says something that might put your relationship into a tailspin, consider how you might respond that could turn away wrath, promote joy and peace, but most of all honor God!
Promote Peace and Joy in your Home