When you worry, are you harsh with those around you?

For worriers, Paul first prescribed peace with God. Second, he prescribed peace with others. The Apostle instructed: “Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near” (Philippians 4:5). God’s proximity to us is as close as the air that is in and around us. When we have peace with Him in our hearts, He frees us to have peace with others through gentleness, rather than harshness.

Gentleness is power under the Spirit’s control. Solomon, an advocate of gentleness, taught there is joy for those who promote peace (Proverbs 12:20), continuing that an anxious heart weighs a man down, but a kind word cheers him up (Proverbs 12:25).

Next time you worry, not only thank God for the opportunity to find joy in Him, but also surrender any harshness to the Holy Spirit and be soft with others, even when it’s difficult to do so. Use kind words to promote peace and joy.

Episode 227: Joy in Giving (Part 1) from mitchkrusetv on Vimeo.