IMPACTFUL COMMUNICATION (1)

“A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger” – Proverbs 15:1

The Scriptures are replete with Instructions for IMPACTFUL COMMUNICATION: “A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger” (Pro.15:1). Today’s meditation passage contrasts the features of wise and foolish speech. Intentional and gracious communication can lead to peace and healing, while harsh and careless words cause conflict and destruction. Here are six notable insights on impactful communication:

Respond with gentleness: “A soft answer turns away wrath…” (v.1). A gentle answer can de-escalate tension and defuse wrath, whereas a harsh word fuels anger. This requires self-control and a heart rooted in kindness. Angry words tend to incite further conflict. A thoughtful, gentle response can transform tense situations into opportunities for peace and understanding. 

Speak with knowledge and wisdom: “The tongue of the wise uses knowledge rightly…The lips of the wise disperse knowledge…” (vv. 2, 7). The tongue of the wise fittingly applies knowledge, making it agreeable and appealing to listeners. In contrast, the fool’s mouth insensitively blurts out nonsense. The wise use their speech to spread knowledge to benefit others, acting as a source of nourishment. The foolish, however, have no wisdom to share because it is absent from their hearts. 

Remember God sees and hears everything: “The eyes of the Lord are in every place, keeping watch on the evil and the good” (v. 3). Effective communication is guided by the understanding that God is omnipresent and omniscient. This provides both comfort to the righteous, whose faithfulness is seen, and serves as a warning to the wicked, who are held accountable.

Use your words to heal and give life: “A wholesome tongue is a tree of life…” (v. 4). Words transmit power (Pro.18:21). Gentle words have the power to heal wounded consciences and reconcile relationships. Perverse or deceitful speech "breaks the spirit" and creates division. Our words can either release life and health or be weapons of death and destruction. 

Listen to and embrace correction: “A fool despises his father’s instruction, but he who receives correction is prudent” (v. 5). In all areas of life, parental and otherwise, the prudent or wise person heeds instruction and receives correction, recognizing it as a pathway to maturity; whereas, a fool stubbornly rejects guidance, despising the discipline that could lead to wisdom. 

Prioritize righteousness over worldly wealth: “In the house of the righteous there is much treasure, but in the revenue of the wicked is trouble” (v. 6). Cultivating a righteous heart is the secret of impactful speech. Our words are an overflow of our heart (Lk.6:45). True wealth lies in a godly, contented life, which in turn leads to God-glorifying, impactful communication. 

Intentionality is crucial. Impactful communication is not impulsive. It involves weighing our words to be sensitive and timely, listening and speaking with purpose. The wise take time to listen and weigh their answers; while fools rush to release folly.