The Morning HuntSýnishorn

The Morning Hunt – Day Ten – Roar Gently

Lions communicate through a range of behaviors and a variety of vocalizations. Being that they are the most social of the big cats, this makes sense to me. This communication brings and maintains order in the Pride, keeps them strategic during the hunt, and builds camaraderie in the family. Obviously, the lion’s roar is a highly effective warning to outsiders and his voice warns those within the Pride of impending danger. The lion’s mighty roar might be what it is known for amongst outsiders, but it is the communication he uses the least because, within the Pride, his presence is enough.

If you do something always, it is what you become known for. Your repetitions give you your reputation. The apostle Paul certainly could flex his apostolic authority if needed, but he did say we should be known for our gracious words. There is something to be said about meekness, for the meek man comes across as a more “manly” man than the bully who is always looking to intimidate others. I am quite sure it was kind words and compliments that helped to draw my wife to me, not because she thought I could beat someone up. Our children feel safer and are inclined not to wander off when we provide the safety of encouragement and kind words. Remember today to speak life and edification to those in the family. Let your conversation be gracious and attractive.

Colossians 4:5-6 MSG - 5-6 Use your heads as you live and work among outsiders. Don’t miss a trick. Make the most of every opportunity. Be gracious in your speech. The goal is to bring out the best in others in a conversation, not put them down, not cut them out.

Colossians 4:6 NLT - Let your conversation be gracious and attractive[a] so that you will have the right response for everyone.

Colossians 4:6 NASB - Your speech must always be [with grace, as though seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should respond to each person.

Proverbs 15:1 MSG - A gentle response defuses anger, but a sharp tongue kindles a temper-fire.

Proverbs 16:23-24 NLT - 23 From a wise mind comes wise speech; the words of the wise are persuasive. From a wise mind comes wise speech; the words of the wise are persuasive. 24 Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.