A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. (Proverbs 15:1 ESV)
Gentleness
Many Christians have come to believe the modern quip that talk is cheap, and that actions speak louder than words. While it is, of course, true that unfulfilled promises, hypocritical statements, and say one thing, but do another, display lack of character, our words actually are of primary importance.
It is our words that show our heart, not our eyes. Actions performed without explanation are often misinterpreted. Words build up or destroy more commonly than deeds.
Gentleness, too, is not found only in what we choose to do. Gentleness can be understood as the choice not to exert our strength, when given an opportunity.
But the choice to be gentle is also found in how we speak, what we say, our words, statements, and utterances.
Not only because words can cut and hurt, but because the things we way, and the way that we say them, show the present condition of our heart, the strength of our sanctification, and our desire to love.
Soft answers, meaning gentle words, seem to be less common these days. As we become more socially, politically, and personally polarized, our words more and more become weapons and means to immediate victory.
But our words can also be winsome and attractive. Not just for our own sake, but for the Kingdom’s sake. For the demonstration of the gospel.
Truth must be spoken clearly … but our words can be gentle.
God’s Word must be brought to bear… but our words can be gentle.
All of the gospel, including the need for the gospel, must be presented without compromise… but our words can be gentle.
Even when we are right, and everyone around is wrong.
How we speak is a matter of choice.
Gentleness is a fruit.