Facing opposition the wise way

Facing opposition the wise way
S - Prov 25:15,21-22 (NASB)
15By forbearance a ruler may be persuaded,
And a soft tongue breaks the bone.

(NLT) 15 Patient persistence pierces through indifference;
gentle speech breaks down rigid defenses.

...
21If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat;
And if he is thirsty, give him water to drink;
22For you will heap burning coals on his head,
And the LORD will reward you.

O - This wisdom for leaders is huge because it is so non-intuitive and goes against some physical instincts we have developed. Those instincts are survival of the fittest, and alpha dog behavior in which the loudest and fiercest gets their way. Solomon shows us there is a better way, one which is truly more effective in the long run, and more importantly aligned with the Lord's will for how people should treat each other. The effectiveness I have learned to believe in and my leadership effectiveness is changing, learning to use a soft tongue to break bones, and heaping coals on your enemies head with kindness.

A - The application for me is specific as a leader who desires to bring wisdom and influence in a godly manner to the team:

1. Use patient persistence and soft words - vice unleashed fury and sharp words, this ultimately will move what appears to be the immovable.

2. When confronted with opposition - treat it with kindness and assistance; ultimately the oppositions defenses will be lowered, and more opportunity and openings will be available.

P - Dear heavenly Father, thank you for today's lesson, may it be sealed to my heart. I pray Lord that you would continue to mentor me and speak truth into my leadership experiences and understanding. I pray all this in Jesus name, Amen.