Beyond the Battlefieldনমুনা

The most valuable joy and deepest pain stem from our relationships. The words we use can be a lighthouse to those around us, or they can be a stabbing pain to someone else. Unfortunately, once we’ve spoken hurtful words to someone, we can’t take them back. The devastating effect on another person usually leaves them scarred, making it hard for them to forgive. Without humility, kind words, and thoughtful words, it’s more difficult for forgiveness to take place. So how do we apply this truth from Scripture to our lives?

By waiting patiently for the other person to finish speaking or yelling! Our natural temptation is to respond quickly, even if the person hasn’t finished speaking yet. Actively listening to a person’s words without irritation shows the person that you honestly care about them. Their tone of voice and facial expressions also reveal how upset, angry, or frustrated the person really is. Acknowledging this makes it easier for us to know how we should respond. Yelling back, rolling our eyes, and rudely interrupting them only escalates the matter to unhealthy levels. However, during the time when we’re being swift to hear and slow to speak, we can ask God for wisdom. We can also say a little prayer that may be on our hearts. This will help us be prepared to respond without anger and without stirring up greater anger in the other person.