How Gentleness Calms Conflict

In review of Proverbs 15:1 I read,  “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” (NIV)

It's hard to argue in a whisper. It's equally hard to argue with someone who insists on answering softly or gently. A rising voice and harsh words almost always trigger an angry response. To turn away wrath and seek peace, choose quiet, and gentle words.

When someone raises their voice against me, I raise my voice in response. Then they raise their voice higher, then I raise mine voice higher again. And the situation keeps escalating.

Some scientists suggest we do this because of mirror neurons in our brain meant to give us the ability to empathize with others and even mirror what they feel. But, unchecked, we can begin to mirror the anger and antagonism of someone in an argument.

Here’s a tip that will save me a lot of heartache and conflict: When others raise their voice, lower mine. This is called strength under control.

The Bible says, “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger” (Proverbs 15:1 NIV).

Gentleness defuses conflict. It deescalates anger.

When someone raises their voice in anger, instead of getting defensive, practice gentleness. Let your gentle answer disarm the other person and diffuse the situation.

In summary, a gentle answer will turn away wrath, but a harsh word will just stir up anger. It's hard to argue with someone who insists on answering softly or gently. A rising voice and harsh words almost always trigger an angry response. To turn away wrath and seek peace, choose quiet, and gentle words. A tip that will save me a lot of heartache and conflict is when others raise their voice, lower mine. This is called strength under control. Gentleness will defuse conflict. It deescalates anger. When someone raises their voice in anger, instead of getting defensive, practice gentleness. Let your gentle answer disarm the other person and diffuse the situation.

Father, I want to seek to become sensitive when I am in an argument that is escalating. With the help of the Holy Spirit I want to look for ways to practice gentleness and not harshness. I ask you for wisdom and guidance for my day, my work, my tasks, my leadership and my interactions with others. I pray these things through your Son Jesus name, Amen.