Healing Words

Words can have a powerful effect for good.   "Pleasant sayings are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and a healing to the bones." (Proverbs 16:24) The narrative of Gideon's averting a possible conflict with the Ephraimites illustrated the truth of this proverb.

Gideon heavily involved in battle against Midian,  called on the tribe of Ephraim to help.  However, after the battle was over, Ephraim turned on Gideon and complained bitterly that he had not called on them at the outset of fighting.  The record states that "they vehemently tried to pick a quarrel with him."  Gideon said in response:  "What now have I done in comparison with you?  Are not the gleanings of Ephraim better than the grape gathering of Abiezer? ?  It was into your hand that God gave Midian's princes Oreb and Zeeb, and what have I been able to do in comparison with you?  (Judges 8:1-3)  By his well-chosen calming words, Gideon avoided what could have been a disastrous inter-tribal war. Those of the tribe of Ephraim may have had a problem with self-importance and pride.  However, that did not stop Gideon from working to being about a practical outcome. Can we do similarly? 

Anger may well up within others and cause hostility toward us. Acknowledge their feelings, and work to understand their views.  Might we in some way have contributed to their feelings?  If so, why not admit the part we had  in creating the difficulty and indicate our sorrow for adding to the problem. A few well-thought out  words may restore a damaged relationship.  (James 3:4)  some who are upset may simply  need our kind reassurance. The Bible notes that "where there is not wood the fire goes out." (Proverbs 26:20) Yes, carefully chosen words delivered in the right spirit can 'turn away rage' and prove to be a healing. -Proverbs 15:1. 

 The apostle Paul recommends:  "If possible, as far as it depends upon you, b peaceable with all men."  (Romans 12:18)  It is true that we cannot control others' feelings, but we can do our part to promote peace. Rather than being subject to our own imperfect responses or those of others, we can act now to apply well-founded Bible principles. Handling differences in the way that Jehovah instructs us to will result in our everlasting peace and happiness. -Isaiah 48:17.

Next time: Are You a "Full-Grown" Christian?

From the Watchtower  magazine, 2000