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Proverbs 15:1 — “A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.”

Conflict is an inevitable part of life, but how we respond makes all the difference. Proverbs teaches that a soft answer has the power to turn away wrath, while harsh words only escalate tension. In moments of conflict, wisdom chooses gentleness over hostility.

A soft answer is not weakness but strength under control. It requires self-discipline to remain calm when others are angry and humility to respond with grace when provoked. Harshness comes naturally to the flesh, but gentleness is the fruit of the Spirit.

The result of a gentle response is often surprising. Anger can be disarmed by kindness, hostility softened by calmness, and strife avoided by patience. On the other hand, a single harsh word can turn a small disagreement into a raging fire. The tongue can either extinguish or ignite.

Christ Himself modeled this perfectly. When reviled, He did not revile again; when mocked, He did not retaliate. His silence before His accusers and His prayer for their forgiveness show the wisdom of gentleness. If the Lord of glory could answer softly, surely His followers should too.

To live wisely is to season our speech with grace. When faced with conflict today, let us choose the soft answer. It may not always win over others, but it will honor God and reflect the spirit of Christ.