In today’s world, anger has become second nature to many of us. In fact, it has become a reflex for many who are simply waiting for the next thing to be angry about. If you do not believe me, simply scroll through Facebook and count the number of virtual arguments you see taking place. There is a better way to live than simply waiting for the next argument to unfold. Scripture teaches that there is strength in gentleness. In fact, gentleness has the power to quell fierce arguments that begin to unfold.
Would you rather only be able to yell all the time, or only able to whisper? Why?
1. What do you think it means to be gentle?
2. What things do you see people getting angry and fighting about right now? 3. Read Proverbs 15:1-4. How does Scripture define gentleness based on these verses?
Proverbs 15:1-4 A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare. The tongue of the wise makes knowledge appealing, but the mouth of a fool belches out foolishness. The Lord is watching everywhere, keeping his eye on both the evil and the good. Gentle words are a tree of life; a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit.
Proverbs 15:1-4
A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare.
The tongue of the wise makes knowledge appealing, but the mouth of a fool belches out foolishness.
The Lord is watching everywhere, keeping his eye on both the evil and the good.
Gentle words are a tree of life; a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit.
4. According to these verses, what is one of the benefits of gentleness? How have you seen this to be true in your own life?
5. Read Ephesians 4:29. Who in your life has used their words to build you up? How have they impacted you?
Ephesians 4:29 Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them.
Ephesians 4:29
Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them.
6. Who are you having a hard time getting along with right now? What is one way that you can show them gentleness instead of anger?7. Who do you know who could use some encouragement? How can you encourage them today?
Let’s commit this week to be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry (James 1:19). Here are some practical ways your group can put this into action:· Discuss which of these three things is most challenging for you: being quick to listen, slow to speak, or slow to become angry.· Decide one practical step you can take this this week to make progress in that challenging area you discussed.· When everyone has shared, pray for each other to have the courage and boldness to take that step this week.
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Psalm 126:3 Yes, the Lord has done amazing things for us! What joy!
Psalm 126:3
Yes, the Lord has done amazing things for us! What joy!
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