Respond gently; disarm rebellion

Most of us talk too much. And many of us talk too loudly.

While the occasional increase of volume is to be advised in public oratory, the constant use of volume in day-to-day conversation is unnerving. It is also the sign of an insecure person, and therefor, breeds insecurity in those around. Even those unfamiliar with the scriptures seem to intuitively accept the truth of James 1:26.

"If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man's religion is vain."

In short, it seems that there is a universal but oft' unspoken law: When a man has lost control of his speech, he has lost control of himself. People will not follow a perpetually uncontrolled man. Indeed, they will not even want to be around him. Followers know that they have enough instability of their own. They look for more in their leader. They look for poise and control.

President Teddy Roosevelt's philosophy of leadership became an open secret. He driected the affairs of his nation as one who "spoke softly but carried a big stick."

Godly men fume less...and act more!

When faced with the hostile question which Jesus knew would take Him tp death on the cross, our Lord responded, "Thou sayest that I am a king." John 18:37. Let us learn to answer with the calm of kings.