As with all of Scripture, there are many ways for a truth to play out. That is not to suggest that the truth is malleable or anything less than 100% solid. Truth is not relative. We don’t create or define truth. We simply accept it and live by it, or we don’t and suffer the consequences. But how that truth works out in our journey can be, and usually is, very unique. This verse can give visions of a conflict or confrontation where someone brings a gentle response, and everyone ends up hugging and leaving in a better place. I wish that were always true. God has more to teach us at times than just “hugging it out.” I was in a business meeting the other day, and it became obvious very quickly that the other person wanted to argue. I refused and simply responded as gently as possible. They also wanted me to tell them they were right and they could do to us whatever they wanted. That also didn’t happen. They basically stormed out. The wrath was turned away, and left. Not exactly how I thought this verse would play out. I do anticipate a reconnecting, which most likely would not happen if I had responded in kind. It would have stirred up anger. Our responsibility is to give a gentle response. God will work in the other person, who is on their own journey. We operate with the knowledge that we are always dealing with a person Jesus died for, and that means we treat them as someone of incredible worth to God. That should help us see past the conflict. Today, stay calm and be kind. #BeTheEdge
“With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness.”James 3:9 NIV
