Our Scripture reading today is Proverbs 15:1-2.
Verse 1, "A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger."
An argument will quickly come to an end if one person is willing to yield. It matters not whether that person is right or wrong. If they are willing to wave the white the flag, the argument is over. As Solomon says, Wrath is turned away. What keeps wrath from being turned away? PRIDE!
“Pride and passion on both sides strike together like two flints. We indulge in sarcasm as if we would rather lose a friend than miss scoring a point in the argument. All this the world excuses. But the Gospel sets before us our Saviour’s example and imbues us with his spirit; so we should be careful not to provoke a chafed or wounded spirit.” (Bridges)
There is never a day when humility is overrated. We need humility in the home, the church, our place of employment, and in all of our relationships. Humility will prevent a minor offence from becoming a mountain. Humility will prevent a small disagreement from becoming a shouting match. It is something we should ask the LORD for every day. May God help us to return a grievous word with a soft, humble answer.