Tongue Of the Wise

Pastor W F Kumuyi
TEXT:  JUDGES 8:1-3
Key verse: “…And what was I able to do in comparison of you? Then their anger was abated toward him…” (Judges 8:3).

The tongue of man is a key to life or death. It can sow comfort, joy, peace and harmony or discomfort, sadness, turmoil and discord. The Bible calls it “a fire …a world of iniquity” (James 3:13-18). Yet, when wisely used, it will douse the hottest contention.

Gideon was returning from a very great victory over the Midianites when the Ephramites angrily accused him of not involving them in his fight. But divine wisdom from the lips of Gideon pacified their anger and won them over when he softly and humbly venerated the Ephramites above his own people.

A closer look shows that Ephraim had no ground for their grudge against Gideon. Besides, normal patriotic zeal would have made them to volunteer their services at such a time. Cowards will want to seem valiant when the danger is over. It might be that they were piqued at not having shares in the glory of the victory. Instead of repressing their wounded pride, they used this occasion to bring out an old and deep-seated rivalry. But we should learn from the way their anger was pacified. Gideon with meekness and control over his passion, magnified their performances above his own victory.

His soft answer turned away wrath. Gentleness coupled with words seasoned with grace, will disarm the most furious. “By long forbearance is a prince persuaded, and a soft tongue breaketh the bone”. Tact in handling issues of life must be cultivated in order to maintain truth and good relationship. To avoid unnecessary offences and wrangling, Christians should learn to use positive and gracious words. There is need for crucifixion at Calvary for the tongue to be brought under the control of God's Spirit. God's grace is meant to change our lives including our tongues.

 
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: The righteous' tongue is always with grace, seasoned with salt.