October 7, 2026

Business by the Book

Proverbs 15:1 A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.

Well said! Leadership is not loudership. Or, one does not become a leader by being louder. This is demonstrated in a page from the life of Jacob.

Jacob was returning home to Canaan from Padan-aram where he served Laban for twenty-one years. On the arduous journey home he said to his brother Esau, …I will lead on softly, according as the cattle that goeth before me and the children be able to endure… (Genesis 33:14) He knew that there are times a leader needs to lead on softly. This could include the way they speak to followers, enemies, friends and foes alike: they could speak softly, especially during times of anger.

Once leaders in the workplace learn to use soft answers during times of anger the work place becomes a better place to work. However, many, if not most, choose to use grievous words, words that stir up anger. When describing the way that heathens pray Jesus said, …for they think that they shall be heard for their much speaking. (Matthew 6:7) The same can be said for the boisterous and grievous words many leaders use during times of conflict. It could be said, “For they think they shall be heard for their loud and grievous speaking.” 

As a person who makes a living by communicating to others (preaching) I have learned that if I really want people to listen or if they seem to be drifting and I sense the need to bring them back to the message, getting quiet is a most productive tactic. A prolonged silence brings everyone back into attention. Speaking very softly is a close second.

The next time anger rears its ugly head, try a soft answer and see what happens.

Dr. William Howe