Getting through indifference and rigid defenses.

Patient. Persistent. Gentle.

Maybe these aren’t the usual words that would come to mind when you want to introduce and influence a change… and yet – wisdom tells us that if our attitude includes these attributes, we will see success.

Patient persistence pierces through indifference; gentle speech breaks down rigid defenses.~ Proverbs 25:15 MSG

Be patient in prayer.

Believe God can make a way. (Catch that? GOD makes the way, not us.)

If you’re dealing with your spouse, with a co-worker or boss, if you’re trying, yet again, with in-laws or parents, siblings or children, remain patient, yet persistent.

Let your voice and words be gentle.

Gentleness is one of the strongest values – part of the definition of “gentleness” as a value is “strength under control”. This post about gentleness in marriage is one of the most read where I write about marriage. You will differentiate yourself in every encounter if you are gentle. Just try catching a toddler’s attention – where shouting might not work, a whisper will intrigue a mass of mischievous energy. Whispering words into a teen’s ear will make a greater impact than shouting your statements of fact through a closed door.

Are you facing relationships filled with indifference or rigid defenses?

Try persistent patience and gentleness if you want to see a change for the positive.