A soft answer turns away wrath,
but a harsh word stirs up anger.
I saw an article on my news app yesterday that looked into the rising level of anger, especially in men. We have all seen viral videos of angry meltdowns from people of both genders and all races. To answer the question of why, psychologists trace the rising tide of anger to social media, where we can rant and rave, spewing hateful bile at anyone and everyone with no possibility of repercussions. The proverb above explains that the subject of the quarrel does not matter, it is the demeanor of the individual that determines which response will be given. The serene and content soul will give the soft answer, while the rash and angry man will stir up the conflict. Guess which of the two people know the Lord and his statutes. Guess which one follows the Lord in obedience to the Lord’s command to pray for those who persecute you.
Our demeanor and state of mind are important as we follow Jesus Christ. People are watching. You may be surprised at how often Paul is concerned with how outsiders see us. Our notion of Paul is that he would lead the way with the harsh word in righteous anger. Twice, Luke in Acts relates how the church was looked on favorably, even when they asserted their duty to proclaim the gospel. Anger is not a fruit of the Spirit, but of the flesh. Yes, we grieve when God is mocked and there is a place for a stern rebuke but a soft answer will show others to Jesus.
Dear Lord, thank you for the Holy Spirit who guides our words and actions. Help us to go viral for our love. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Pastor Brad Boyer
Cape Community Church