Proverbs 15:1-2
“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. The tongue of the wise commends knowledge, but the mouth of the fool gushes folly.”
My first job as a police officer was a constant learning experience. It was in the early 50’s (that sounds like the dark ages doesn’t it?). There was no such thing as a training academy. We learned from experienced officers on the job or from time-to-time training courses by outside specialists.
I recall one such session that was being taught by an FBI agent. One of the things he shared with us was the value of using a soft voice while dealing with someone who was under the influence of alcohol. I filed it under the section of my brain called “good to know, but what use is it?”
It was some months later that I had developed a first class case of laryngitis and was barely able to speak above a whisper. I was called by the police dispatcher to go to a local tavern and deal with an unruly drunk. The bartender pointed the man out to me and wished me luck.
I walked over to the man and whispered, “I understand there is some problem here. Can you come outside with me so we can talk about it?” To my amazement he whispered back, “Okay” and followed me like a little puppy dog. By that time there was back-up patrolmen on the scene to take the man to sober up. When I went back inside, the bartender asked me how I did that when several strong men had trouble controlling him. I simply said, “Get laryngitis!”
The technique also works in all of our dealings. As the writer of Proverbs points out, soft answers avoid wrath, while harsh words lead to anger. Try it the next time there is a conflict in your life.
Blessings dear hearts. Draw near to God today, trust Him completely and be a blessing!
– – – Pastor Cecil
360-570-0074
PastorCecil@Daily-E-Votional.com