An elementary school in Georgia, an AK-47, 500 Rounds of ammo, and shots fired.  Antoinette tells the shooter, “We’re not gonna hate you, baby… It’s going to be alright sweetie… “

 Relationships are difficult. They require work, constant attention and above all, they should be filled with love. Of course, this is easier said than done in many cases. What happens when you dealing with a difficult person? Often, we begin identifying what is wrong with the other person, but what if we looked first at ourselves? What if we first asked, “How should I respond?”

 Proverbs 15:1 says “A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare.” In our human abilities, we don’t feel like returning anger with a gentle answer, but it will put the fire out. A harsh word makes it escalate. It’s amazing how much the Bible mentions about the effect of our words. Watching your words can make your job better, relationships better and give you less regrets later. Do you want to change the people in your life? Start by changing yourself and the perfect place to begin is with your words. Respond in love, and God can do amazing things in all your relationships.

 Life Lesson: You can be changed today. Every relationship you have including your job can be improved today.

 20 year-old Michael surrendered to police without anyone being injured, thanks to the gentle answer and words of love shared by Antoinette– one courageous lady.

David McGee is the founder of Cross The Bridge Ministries as well as a pastor, teacher and author.  He may be contacted using the form below.

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Column #14-0301 (Life Lesson based on 2 Corinthians 12:19 teaching)