by Dee Bowman
1. Meet the problem head-on, but not too quickly. Remember, patience is a virtue.
Let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. (James 1:4)
2. Make sure you understand all the facts. Many a problem has been proliferated by someone who didn’t take the time to research the real reasons involved in the matter.
“You shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” (John 8:32)
3. Keep a level head. Even right things, if they are not said with a level head, can intensify the difficulty. Control is wisdom; wisdom is control.
Whoever keeps his mouth and his tongue keeps himself out of trouble. (Prov 21:23)
4. Smile. Genuinely, I mean. It’s hard to be hateful when you are smiling. And it’s hard to retaliate against someone who is genuinely smiling.
A glad heart makes a cheerful face… (Prov 15:13)
5. Speak softly. I have a note on my desk I wrote years ago when I was about to be involved in a controversial situation. It says, “Think! God, please help me not to say more than need be said, and help me to say it softly.”
A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. (Prov 15:1)