Proverbs 15:1 says: “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”

Wow, talk about practical.

Let’s say someone says something harsh to you. Perhaps it happens in person, but maybe it happens online. Either way, your instinct is to react. You want to say some things that are probably not very nice.

When that feeling comes over you, don’t. Remember Proverbs 15:1. A thoughtful, gentle response is probably more consistent with who you want to be in your better moments. An unthoughtful, angry reaction is probably going to make things worse.

That’s why I encourage you to use the 24-hour rule. If someone says something unfair or cutting in person, and if they expect you to say something in response, it might be a good idea to say you need to get back to them later. If someone says something unfair or cutting over an email or text, it might be a good idea to NOT respond right away. The 24-hour rule is waiting a full day before doing anything. There can be a world of difference between a thoughtful response and a thoughtless reaction. 

Whenever I’ve practiced the 24-hour rule, I’ve been glad I did. It gives you time to pray, ask for guidance, and respond well.

Your choice of words can make a situation better or worse. Your choice.

Maybe this isn’t an issue for you. Maybe you are perfectly calm and never lose perspective even when things get hairy and hostile. But for the rest of us, maybe we should give the 24-hour rule a try.

“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”

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Notes:

–Bible quotes are from the NIV.