We were driving to church yesterday morning, listening to a local Christian radio station, and something that was said struck a chord with me.
The ministry minute, between songs, was about our words and how controlling the tongue is so incredibly difficult. God spoke directly to my heart through what this woman had to say - something along the lines that a small victory is responding with love and grace in the midst of stress and angst. She shared that she often retorted in frustration instead of slowing down and speaking in kindness.
A soft answer turns away wrath,
but a harsh word stirs up anger.
Proverbs 15:1
but a harsh word stirs up anger.
Proverbs 15:1
Hello, conviction.
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I'll admit that I have been too quick to respond with a harsh tone lately. Moving and unpacking is stressful. I wanted to have our new place completely unpacked and pictures on the walls by now and I don't. I've already dubbed myself the task master. I know it's unrealistic and ridiculous.
There is no reason why I shouldn't be speaking with love and grace. I have so much to be thankful for - a new church, a happy husband, a cheerful little girl, a perfect-for-us house, and a craft room. *wink*
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So, today, with that piercing mini-message embedded in my heart, I changed my first response.
I took a deep breath and spoke in a quiet voice when N had a less than stellar 'tude this afternoon and she apologized on her own. When she made a mess, we cleaned it up together and the world didn't end. Instead of barreling through the day with my to do list in hand, I slowed down and had some pretty awesome and memorable moments with my girl.
I took a deep breath and spoke in a quiet voice when N had a less than stellar 'tude this afternoon and she apologized on her own. When she made a mess, we cleaned it up together and the world didn't end. Instead of barreling through the day with my to do list in hand, I slowed down and had some pretty awesome and memorable moments with my girl.
Today was good.
12 comments:
My response often isn't that great either. It seems easier to snap a response then be gentle even though that is the right thing and I know would get a better response.
Thank you, thank you, thank you for sharing this. I believe it's a true message for anyone, no matter where they are, who they are, what their faith is or what situation they are in.
I have a quick tongue. I have a way of snapping and saying that which I do not mean. I truly believe I inherited that from my father. When he and my mother fought, he'd respond with angry and "teasing" but... in an insulting way.
To stop, take a step back, think and than talk is a challenge. But one that MUST be done. I can imagine I would not only treat others better, but I would be less harsh on myself, as well.
Oh this post came at the best time. With the sleepy fog of a newborn my first responses haven't always been the softest or kindest lately. Such a wonderful reminder, thank you.
I totally needed this today. How ever did you know. I've teared up because I am such an angry responder. Then the guilt kicks in!! Thank you thank you thank you. This one spoke directly to my heart!!
Xoxo
Lately I've been doing the same thing then feeling guilty for getting mad. Thank you for this reminder.
Hugs!
Thanks for this Tricia. Such a simple way/attitude to have, yet so hard to practice when you have reached the end of your rope. I have been able to be more intentional with this lately.
"Take a deep breath, then respond." That's what I try to tell myself.
Have a good one! :]
I loved this post because I can soo relate. Under the weather, and feeling tired and stressed today with 1 sick kid home and a busy toddler. I needed to read this 5 minutes ago so I would've been reminded to breathe, count to 10 then be sweet not hurried!
Good for you! In this day and age with all the rush and pressure we are all to quick to snap at people. Realizing you are doing it and trying to make a change is amazing!!
Love this! Can't be reminded of it enough!
Oh sweet friend, I loved this post and I needed to read these words! I have found myself snapping at the boys more often when I should be speaking like this to them. Thank you times a million!
This is so me lately. I have no reason to be this way, either! :) Thanks for sharing, sweet friend.
Such a sweet post! I love how little reminders like that can change your day around. Attitude and small shifts of perspective can make all the difference.
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