A soft answer turns away wrath,
but a harsh word stirs up anger. The tongue of the wise commends knowledge, but the mouths of fools pour out folly. Proverbs 15:1–2
Lord Jesus, as with the rest of the Bible, this passage makes us think of you. No one is more filled with kindness and gentle answers than you—a reflection and expression of your heart.
Your tongue is wiser and more healing that anybody’s. You never “pour out folly,” but you constantly pour your love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit. Even when we rush into your presence with demands dressed up like requests, or stubbornness pretending to be confusion, or clenched fists rather than raised hands, you remain compassionate and welcoming. Thank you.
You are firm with us but never harsh; engaged, but never irritated; always patient, but never a “pushover.” You never respond to us with anger or irritation. All your rebukes for us are life-giving and heart-liberating. By the power of the gospel, make us more like you, Jesus.
When we ignore your wooings and warnings, we show how little of the gospel we’re believing in the moment. For there’s nothing about you that justifies any other response from us but humility, submission, and worship.
Jesus, we’re so glad the season of Advent is about waiting for you, and not “getting our act together.” As we get closer and closer to Christmas, may your manger and cross grow bigger and bigger.
If we had to atone for the ways we misuse our words, or if we had to finance our own redemption or gentle our own hearts, we’d surely despair. Hallelujah, the gospel is true and enough. May our attitudes and words reveal its unparalleled beauty today. So very Amen we pray, in your ever-so-glorious and grace-full name.
