We often know how to push each other's buttons. In this verse, God is telling us not to poke in ways that are likely to provoke an angry or violent reaction beyond what may genuinely be necessary to exercise our own faith in good conscience. We often become pretty good at pushing each other's buttons in ways that maintain plausible deniability regarding who started it. The better we know someone, such as close family, the more likely we are to be tempted in these ways.

But nothing in all creation is hidden from God's sight. Jesus sees the motivations of your heart if you are intentionally provoking rather than seeking peace, and he warned us that we would have to give an account on the day of judgment for every word we have spoken. We need to ask the Holy Spirit to give us words of peace and life that will be oil on troubled waters rather than stirring up trouble.

Sure, there will be times when our conscience or the Holy Spirit is prompting us to take a stand for some Biblical principle of truth or justice. But even then, are we looking and asking for the Holy Spirit to give us a way to say what is needed without provoking unnecessary strife? Would a written note serve the interests of peace better than a verbal confrontation? Would a private discussion serve the interest of peace better than a public confrontation? Would it be more peaceful to take a breath, ask for God's help, and sit down before giving someone a piece of your mind?

Querido Padre Celestial,

I confess that there are times when I speak or act on a whim and make a mess of things. Please help me to seek You and to listen to Your promptings before the mistake is made. I want to be an example of someone with godly character in all situations. Even when faced with harsh words or tough situations, I want my light to shine for You. Give me Your wisdom, Father. In the Name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

Read Proverbs 15:1-2 and determine in your heart to make wise choices in every situation.