When faced with a choice of angry retaliation or gentleness, partner with God, keep things in perspective and choose gentleness.

Sometimes the perfect comeback is SO tempting!

Last week I was on a plane, talking with two friends, when the man in front of us turned around and said, “Can you QUIET DOWN already?”

We lowered our voices, but he kept giving us “the look.” Finally, I said, “Sir, we’re trying to be quiet, but I’m having a hard time hearing my friend.” Well, that’s when his wife whipped her head around and said, among other things, “Just HUSH!” My face turned red, my heart raced; and I thought of the perfect comeback!

I had a choice. If I chose anger and retaliation, the whole conflict would escalate. If, however, I chose grace, I’d be partnering with God and continuing to make progress with giving gentle answers and that’s what I wanted.

I’ve worked so hard in this area. Why trade it all for a few snippy remarks I’d only regret? My job, in that moment, was to keep things in perspective and give a gentle answer.