It’s day 15 of Proverbs a chapter a day here at Refocused Bible Study.  (Each day we read and discuss the chapter corresponding with the date).

This month we are digging deep into the word through a quiet time pattern based on the word ‘WISE” (see the image below). We’ve been talking about the Word traveling from our minds to our hearts and coming alive in our lives. When we see how God can use just one verse of scripture to renew our minds and transform the way we think, act and become more like Jesus (Romans 12:2).

Friday we studied Proverbs 12 and discussed how encouraging words can cheer a person up. It’s easy to speak encouragement when a conversation is going well; but what about when the atmosphere is tense and you or the person you are speaking to are frustrated, snippy, or angry? It’s much harder to answer a person kindly When they have spoken to you in anger.

Our verse of the week and my verse of the day show us what to do when we find ourselves in this situation.

“A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare.”

Proverbs 15:1 NLT 

In my life: Rely on the Holy Spirit to produce the fruit of gentleness in my words – even when the words coming at me are not gentle. Remember what this verse says; tender, soft words make wrath turn away from you — that is the desired result. I don’t want to stir up anger. I want peace in the relationships in my life.

Speak the verse aloud.

End in prayer: Lord, thank you for the wisdom in your word about how to handle it when a person is speaking angrily at us. Please help us respond with a gentle, soft answer through the power of your Holy Spirit so we can bring you glory and diffuse anger. Thank you for your help in this, Jesus, Amen.

For more study on life giving words, click here. 

Which verse spoke to you today?