A Gentle Tongue Breaks a Bone

[15] “By long forbearance a ruler is persuaded, And a gentle tongue breaks a bone.” – Proverbs 25:15 (NKJV)

Have you been so angry at a circumstance that you spoke harshly to someone? Did that solve the problem? Sometimes, it does by instilling stern discipline in those who messed up so they don’t repeat it. But in most cases, harsh words worsen situations. Why? Because the tendency to speak lamentable words in moments of anger is high. Solomon knew this, so God inspired him to write a proverb about it.

He said in Proverbs 25:15 that a ruler is persuaded by long forbearance, and a gentle tongue breaks a bone. That means you only need to approach some problems with gentle composure. That primarily works for wives and employees when they want to address an issue with their husbands and employers, respectively. Your shouting won’t always solve the problem you want to address. Sometimes, taking a step back to analyse the situation before providing a solution is best. Every leader who knows this will end up creating lasting solutions to problems rather than interim ones.

Some issues in life will keep recurring if you don’t change your approach to solving them. Interim solutions have never been the best way to solve lasting issues. Your charisma isn’t always needed in solving problems; sometimes, it pays to be gentle, especially when speaking to people who are more knowledgeable or have more power than you.

You are a blessing.