I love the book of Proverbs! It’s about wisdom (something I’m sure we could all admit that we want more of). In Chapter 15, Solomon contrast a gentle spirit to a contentious one. He speaks of the “grievous word” that stirs up anger (15:1), of the “perverseness” that breaks the spirit (15:4), and of the “wrathful” spirit that stirs up conflict (15:18).
Calm and sweet tempers are rare; and perhaps we may say, without disparaging their value, that it is not to these to which we naturally look for in leadership. Their province is to heal, to calm, and to sweeten life; and yet in the world today, their behavior often gets typecasts as weak or fearful. Often times, it is in the fiery, passionate, and more turbulent natures, that we expect to find “leaders” not in the peacemakers.
However, I’ve worked with many passionate, more turbulent temperaments who “speak their mind” and say or do things that they later bitterly regret. So, let’s not underestimate the wisdom in having a soft temper and cheerful countenance (15:13), it may be the key to avoiding regret!
If you are tasked with the role of leadership… in the workplace, as a parent, as a coach, or in another role remember the words of Solomon… “A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.” Proverbs 15:1
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