Words

“A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare. 

Gentle words are a tree of life; a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit. 

The lips of the wise give good advice; the heart of a fool has none to give. 

The heart of the godly thinks carefully before speaking; the mouth of the wicked overflows with evil words.”Proverbs‬ ‭15‬:‭1‬, ‭4‬, ‭7‬, ‭28‬ ‭NLT‬‬

How we use words is important. It is wrong to wait until you are so angry to confront, because then you spew out poison. It is better to be guided by godliness than anger and vindictiveness.

When do you know the time is up to end friendships? When grace for wrong behaviour is never enough. When the aggressor is intent on destruction of you and your world at the expense of a bitter heart which refuses to give up hatred and offense.

Empathy can stretch only so far, but taking the blame for wrong behaviour in others is submission to the darkness they carry. An unwillingness in a person to confront darkness within is destructive to them as well as you.

A smile and protestations of love covering bitterness soon become evident as a false statement. Falseness needs to be uncovered. The challenge is not to allow anger in the confrontation. Confrontation in God’s time and God’s way may bring peace. Look for peace, not at the expense of compromise but a clean house (heart).

Christmas can be a horrible time if dwelling with people who are bitter. Proverbs says: it is better to live on a rooftop than is a house with a bitter, faultfinding woman. (Or 21:9)

Confrontation, done for the sake of godliness and peace makes for a better experience. Praying into the confrontation so that the Lord speaks not the flesh is right, and the only way. Amen!