HOW INSIGHT HELPS US TO BE MILD

 Insight can also help us. (Proverbs 19:11) An insightful show restraint when challenged about his beliefs. Some questions or challenges are like icebergs, the greater part lying below the surface.  For example, a hidden motive or concern may prompt a person to ask a question. So before answering, we do well to realize that we may not know what has moved the person to raise the issue. - PROVERBS 16:23.

Consider how Gideon responded to the men of Ephraim. They angrily challenged him as to why he did not call them earlier to join him in the fight against Israel's enemies. Was there an underlying reason for their contentious attitude? Hurt pride, perhaps? Whatever the case, Gideon wisely respected their feeling and gave them a mild answer. The result? Disarmed, "they calmed down." - JUDGES 8:1-3. 

Perhaps a coworker or a schoolmate questions our Christian stand on certain moral issues. We will do our best to defend our convictions while respecting our listener's view. (Read 1 Peter 3:15) It is often helpful to view the questions as a way to learn what he cares about rather than an attack or a challenge. Regardless of the reason why someone has raised an issue, we do well to respond in a gentle, kind way. Our answer may then move him to reconsider his viewpoint. Even if his manner seems rude or sarcastic, our goal should be to respond kindly. - ROMANS 12:17. 

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