Hands-on Faith for Families– week of 7/29/13
Gentleness in Speech
A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.
Talking to God
Thank God for giving you the ability to be gentle with your words. Ask Him to help you choose your words carefully so they are not hurtful.
Diving In
List five words that describe your best friend. Now list five words that describe someone you don't get along with very well. Say each of the 10 words out loud and consider how you'd feel if each of those words were used to describe you.
Going Deeper
Words are powerful. "The tongue has the power of life and death" (Proverbs 18:21). Wow! What you say — and how you say it — really does matter. Words can hurt, or they can heal. When you respond to hurtful words with more hurtful words, you only make things worse. If you answer with gentleness, you can soothe angry or bitter feelings and restore broken relationships. Our gentle words show people that they have value, whether you agree or disagree with them. Proverbs 12:18 says, "Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing."
Talking to Each Other
• How have others hurt you with their words?
• How have you hurt others with your words?
• What gentle words have been given to you, and how did they help you?
• Who is one person you can use gentle words with, even if this person doesn't deserve them?
From Focus on the Family's Thrivingfamily.com. © [2011] [Renee Gray-Wilburn]. Used by permission.
