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Patience can persuade a prince, and soft speech can break bones. Proverbs 25:15 NLT
It’s not uncommon for people to chant and shout at political leaders they disagree with, even when those leaders are just trying to enjoy a meal in a restaurant with their families. The Christian is called to a higher standard. He is to be patient with a ruler because gentleness can break through even the stoutest of hearts.
David used a soft tongue when dealing with Saul, but even he could be provoked to anger. When Nabal dealt roughly and ruthlessly with David’s men, David was incensed. Then again, Nabal’s wife, Abigail, acted wisely and was considerate in her conversation with David, who agreed to change his mind about killing Nabal (1 Samuel 25).
If you are a believer who attends political rallies, attends town hall meetings, or writes to your leaders, how does your behavior compare or contrast with today’s key verse, especially when you don’t agree with them?
Proverbs 15:1 conveys a similar admonition: “A soft answer turns away wrath,
But a harsh word stirs up anger.” Consider your reaction when someone disagrees with you. Generally speaking, aren’t you more receptive to changing your mind if someone approaches you with gentleness and respect? Treating leaders the same way might just give you an opportunity to change their minds.
Prayer: Lord, I’m not always quick to offer a gentle tongue, especially when I’m passionate about a topic. Tame my tongue, Lord.
It’s not uncommon for people to chant and shout at political leaders they disagree with, even when those leaders are just trying to enjoy a meal in a restaurant with their families. The Christian is called to a higher standard. He is to be patient with a ruler because gentleness can break through even the stoutest of hearts.
David used a soft tongue when dealing with Saul, but even he could be provoked to anger. When Nabal dealt roughly and ruthlessly with David’s men, David was incensed. Then again, Nabal’s wife, Abigail, acted wisely and was considerate in her conversation with David, who agreed to change his mind about killing Nabal (1 Samuel 25).
If you are a believer who attends political rallies, attends town hall meetings, or writes to your leaders, how does your behavior compare or contrast with today’s key verse, especially when you don’t agree with them?
Proverbs 15:1 conveys a similar admonition: “A soft answer turns away wrath,
But a harsh word stirs up anger.” Consider your reaction when someone disagrees with you. Generally speaking, aren’t you more receptive to changing your mind if someone approaches you with gentleness and respect? Treating leaders the same way might just give you an opportunity to change their minds.
Prayer: Lord, I’m not always quick to offer a gentle tongue, especially when I’m passionate about a topic. Tame my tongue, Lord.
