A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. (Proverbs 15:1 ESV)

I have a friend with a house full of children from age three to twenty. I have known her for over twenty years and have watched the way she disciplines her children in public. I’ve never heard her raise her voice or shout. When a child needs correction, she simply calls them over and whispers into their ear. I admire her and truly enjoy the company of all of her children.

The reason I mention this, is because I have witnessed other parents who have not held to her method of quiet correction. I’m ashamed to admit there have been several occasions when I’ve yelled at and threatened my children. On those occasions, they responded as the verse suggests, with equal frustration.

Good parents have to discipline their children, but today’s verse gives us some sound parenting advice. Gentle words can pacify an angry child, and correction given with an even temper is more likely to be accepted.

This advice, and the truth of this verse, is not limited to the parent-child relationship. A calm and controlled response can usually defuse an otherwise volatile situation.

I’d love to hear from you. Is this verse consistent with your experience?