How do you respond when someone criticizes you? Most of the time it’s normal to snap back with strong words of defense. But as you’ve probably discovered, that does little more than escalate an already tense situation. What would happen if you practiced the instruction from Proverbs 15:1 and spoke kindly and gently to even those who dole out harsh words or unjust criticism? Acting in this fashion requires believers to discipline themselves and, by the power of the Holy Spirit, choose to respond rather than react. So the next time you face a verbally volatile situation, take a deep breath and whisper a quick prayer, inviting the Spirit of God to give you the strength necessary to lower your voice and speak His words of life.