Let "the Law of Kindness" Motivate You - "THE LAW OF KINDNESS" ON YOUR TONGUE

 The capable wife described in Proverbs chapter 31 has "the law of kindness" on her tongue.  (Proverbs 31:26) She allows this "law" to govern the ton e and contents of her speech.  Fathers, too, do well to have this "law" on their tongue.  Most parents are well-aware that a harsh sounding statement can have a negative effect on their child.  If parents speak in a brusque, cold tone, their child will not likely react  well.  So to be more appealing and effective, parents to well to strive to speak with kindness. 

Whether you are a parent or not, how can you govern your tongue with kindess? We find a clue in the first part of Proverbs 31:26:  "She opens her mouth in wisdom." That involves  choosing  your words and tone of voice wisely.  It will usually help to ask ourselves,,  "Will what I  am about to say stir up anger, or will it calm a tense situation?'  (Proverbs 15:1) Yes, it is wise to think ahead.

Another proverb states:  "Thoughtless speech is like the stabs of a sword." (Proverb 12:18) When we reflect on how our words and our tone may affect othersm we will be more likely to be able to  control what rolls off our tongue.  Yes, our applying "the law of kindness" will help us to hold back from using cruel words and a harsh tone.  (Ephesians 4:31, 32)  We will replace negative thoughts and speech with kind words and a positive, warm tone.  Jehovah set the example in this regard when he reasssured his frightened servant Elijah.  The angel representing Jehovah spoke in "a calm, low voice." (1 Kings 19:12) Granted, to be kind involves  more than just kind speech, we must also perform acts of kindness.  How?

Next time: Let "the Law of Kindness" Motivate You - ACTS OF KINDNESS MOTIVATE OTHERS

From the jw.org publications 

6