9 biblical instances where a gentle answer turned away wrath

There’s a vast difference between reacting with anger and responding with gentleness.

This difference is profoundly highlighted in the Bible. It may seem counterproductive to answer harshness with kindness, but the Good Book says, “A gentle answer turns away wrath.”

In this context, gentle doesn’t mean weak. It means maintaining strength and compassion, even when faced with hostility. And trust me when I say, the Bible is filled with instances where this approach has proven successful.

Below are nine biblical examples to illustrate this principle. These instances serve as reminders that a gentle response can indeed turn away wrath. So, buckle up, and let’s take a biblical journey together.

1) David and Saul

Let’s dive into the historical narrative of David and Saul.

David, even though anointed the next king of Israel, found himself pursued by a jealous King Saul. Despite the constant threat to his life, David never retaliated with violence.

In one instance, David had the opportunity to kill Saul but chose instead to cut a piece of his robe. When he later showed it to Saul, he said, “See, my father, look at this piece of your robe in my hand! I cut off the corner of your robe but did not kill you.” (1 Samuel 24:11)

This act of gentleness from David diffused Saul’s wrath and even brought him to tears. He acknowledged David’s righteousness and ceased pursuing him.

This story proves that a gentle answer, or in this case, a gentle action, can indeed turn away wrath. But remember, it’s not just about avoiding conflict; it’s about maintaining integrity and compassion even in tough situations.

2) My own experience

Stepping away from the biblical narrative, let me share a personal anecdote that echoes this teaching.

I remember a time when I found myself in a heated argument with a colleague. We were both passionate about our perspectives on a project and neither of us was willing to back down.

In the midst of this disagreement, I remembered the principle of a gentle answer turning away wrath. So, instead of escalating the argument, I decided to change my approach.

I said, “I understand where you’re coming from and I appreciate your perspective. Let’s try to find a solution that incorporates both our ideas.”

The atmosphere in the room changed almost instantly. My colleague’s anger subsided and we were able to have a productive discussion. It’s amazing how a gentle response can diffuse tension and open the path for constructive conversation.

This practical experience reminded me that this biblical principle isn’t just for age-old stories. It’s applicable in our daily lives too!

3) Stephen’s Speech

Diving back into the biblical accounts, let’s look at the story of Stephen in Acts 7.

Stephen, one of the first deacons of the early Christian church, was known for his great wisdom and faith. When he was falsely accused of blasphemy, he was brought before the Sanhedrin, the supreme court of ancient Israel.

Instead of retaliating with anger or defensiveness, Stephen responded with a thorough and gentle recounting of Israel’s history and God’s faithfulness. His speech was so profound that it touched on every major figure in the Old Testament.

Despite facing a hostile crowd, Stephen’s composed and respectful speech stands as a testament to responding with gentleness. Unfortunately, his words didn’t turn away wrath this time as he ended up becoming the first martyr of Christianity.

This incident underlines that while a gentle response might not always turn away wrath, it is still the right way to respond. It maintains our integrity and exemplifies Christ-like character.

4) Jesus and the Woman Caught in Adultery

Now let’s turn to the New Testament and look at an encounter between Jesus and a woman caught in adultery.

In John 8, the scribes and Pharisees brought a woman caught in adultery before Jesus, testing him to see what he would do. The law of Moses commanded such women to be stoned. But Jesus responded gently, “Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.”

One by one, each accuser left until only Jesus and the woman were left. He said to her, “Neither do I condemn you. Go now and leave your life of sin.”

Jesus’ gentle answer not only diffused the potentially violent situation but also conveyed a message of grace and compassion. It’s an excellent example of how gentleness can effectively turn away wrath.

5) Joseph and His Brothers

Our next stop is at the story of Joseph, a man who rose from being sold into slavery by his brothers to becoming the second most powerful man in Egypt.

Years after they had sold him, his brothers came to Egypt seeking help during a famine. They didn’t recognize Joseph, but he recognized them. Despite the wrong they had done to him, Joseph chose not to respond with anger.

Instead, he reassured them gently, “Do not be distressed and do not be angry with yourselves for selling me here, because it was to save lives that God sent me ahead of you.” (Genesis 45:5)

Joseph’s gentle response not only turned away potential wrath but also brought about reconciliation. It’s a powerful example of how gentleness can transform relationships and heal past hurts.

6) The Prodigal Son

Let’s delve into one of the most heartfelt parables told by Jesus, the story of the Prodigal Son.

In Luke 15, a young man demanded his share of his father’s estate, only to squander it all in reckless living. When he finally returned home, broke and ashamed, he expected his father’s wrath.

But instead, his father saw him from afar, ran to him, embraced him, and said, “For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.” (Luke 15:24)

Despite the son’s disrespect and wastefulness, the father responded with overwhelming love and gentleness. This gentle answer not only turned away the expected wrath but also restored a broken relationship.

This story touches our hearts because it mirrors God’s incredible love for us. No matter how far we stray, He always welcomes us back with open arms.

7) The Good Samaritan

There’s a powerful parable that’s had a profound impact on me, the story of the Good Samaritan.

In Luke 10, a man was beaten by robbers and left for dead on the road. A priest and a Levite passed by but did nothing. It was a Samaritan, considered an outsider and enemy, who stopped to help.

He treated the man’s wounds, took him to an inn, and paid for his care. His actions spoke volumes, responding with kindness in a situation where others chose indifference.

This story has always challenged me. It’s easy to respond with gentleness when it’s convenient. But what about when it’s difficult? When it requires sacrifice?

The Good Samaritan serves as an inspiration to respond with gentleness and compassion, even when it’s not easy or expected.

8) Jesus and Peter’s Denial

Next, let’s look at an incident involving Jesus and his disciple Peter.

Before Jesus was crucified, he predicted that Peter would deny him three times. Peter, full of confidence, insisted he would never do such a thing. Yet, as Jesus predicted, Peter did deny him.

After his resurrection, Jesus didn’t confront Peter with anger or disappointment. Instead, he asked him gently, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” (John 21:16)

Despite his denial, Peter was given a chance to affirm his love for Jesus. This gentle confrontation not only turned away potential wrath but also restored their relationship.

This interaction between Jesus and Peter teaches us that gentleness can mend broken trust and bring about reconciliation.

9) Jesus on the Cross

Finally, the ultimate instance of a gentle answer turning away wrath is found in Jesus’ words from the cross.

As he was being crucified, enduring the worst kind of physical and emotional pain, Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” (Luke 23:34)

In the face of unbearable suffering and injustice, Jesus responded with a plea for forgiveness for his tormentors. His gentle answer didn’t just turn away wrath; it offered grace and mercy in its place.

This profound act of love is the heart of the Christian faith and the most powerful example of how a gentle answer can indeed turn away wrath.

Final reflection: The power of gentleness

As we reflect on these nine biblical instances, it becomes clear that a gentle answer truly has the power to turn away wrath. This principle, deeply rooted in the Bible, is more than just a guideline for communication. It’s a call to embody a character of love, patience, and understanding.

The apostle Paul, in his letter to the Galatians, lists gentleness as one of the fruits of the Spirit. This suggests that gentleness is not merely a virtue but a divine attribute that we are called to cultivate.

Proverbs 15:1 simply states, “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” These words serve as a timeless reminder of the power and influence our responses can have.

Whether it’s David’s respect towards Saul, Joseph’s forgiveness towards his brothers, or Jesus’ ultimate expression of love on the cross – each instance underscores the influence of a gentle response.

As we navigate through our daily interactions and confrontations, let’s remember these instances. May they inspire us to choose gentleness over hostility, love over hatred, and understanding over judgment.

In doing so, we not only turn away wrath but also promote peace and harmony in our relationships. Let’s not underestimate the impact of our words and actions; they have the power to change hearts and transform lives.

So I leave you with this question to ponder: How can we incorporate more gentleness into our responses?