A gentle answer deflects anger

“A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare.” (Prov. 15:1 NLT)

Usually when someone treats you badly, such as cutting you off in traffic, or in some other negative way such as speaking harshly to you, the first impulse is to react in kind. But, negative reactions only increase anger and leads to worse things. The best answer is to always react kindly and gently to negative situations. This is the example God has given us in His Son, Jesus, and is how we are to behave.

Clothe yourself with compassion

“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” (Col. 3:12 NIV)

God’s kindness is meant to lead you to repentance

“Or do you think lightly of the riches of His kindness and tolerance and patience, not knowing that the kindness of God leads you to repentance?” (Rom. 2:4 NASB)

Therefore…

“Love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be sons of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous” (Matt. 5:44-45 NIV)

And be blessed

“God blesses those who work for peace, for they will be called the children of God.” (Matt. 5:9 NLT)