The Proverbs
writer stated, “A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up
anger” (Proverbs 15:1). There are times which certain situations are at their
breaking point. What is said next will determine how this situation will end.
One may choose to speak with a tone that is strong and fierce in the hopes that
the offended party will back down and quell the problem. Most likely, what will
happen if this occurs? Usually, anger begets anger. Kindness, on the other
hand, usually begets kindness. Understandably, there are times in which a
strong rebuke is to be given (Ephesians 5:11) but often it is not the solution
to the problem. One should be reminded of the Apostle Paul, who wielded the rod
but begged Philemon to take back Onesimus (1 Corinthians 4:21; Philemon 1:8-9).
While the truth is never to be compromised remember that Christians are to
speak “…the truth in love…” (Ephesians 4:15).
