Freely Speaking Audio Devotion

Angela Gray, Tuesday, February 10, 2026

Welcome to Freely Speaking, an OHSOFREE devotional ministry where we share our hearts and trust God for transformation.

Today’s devotion was written by Angela Gray.

“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger” (Proverbs 15:1 NIV).

My pursuit of gentleness began during a painful season of conflict with my teenage son. Raised voices and angry words had become the daily norm in our home, and I mourned the loss of the close relationship we had always shared. I was bewildered by the sudden disrespect and rebellion, and I found myself responding in hurt and frustration. Every harsh word widened the distance between us, and my heart was broken.

As I poured out my heart to the LORD, asking Him to change my son’s attitude, I heard the Holy Spirit whisper, “A gentle answer turns away wrath…” My prayer quickly changed to, LORD, change MY heart,” and from that moment, things began to change.

The Holy Spirit now tempered my responses with gentleness, and when gentleness governed MY attitude, the harsh words of anger spewing from my son were diffused. Calm replaced chaos, and in only a few days, my son opened up to me about the struggles he was facing. 

The use of the word “gentle” in today’s scripture does not mean weak or timid. Its meaning is “tenderness with underlying strength,” and it perfectly describes Jesus's response as he faced arguments, accusations, and anger. Do you recall his calm defense in the discussions with the Pharisees, the peace he portrayed in Pilate’s hall, and the prayer of forgiveness he prayed over those who crucified him? 

Isaiah 40:11 tells of a shepherd who GENTLY leads the sheep who are with young. I’m so thankful for the gentleness Christ has shown this mother and how He has made that same gentleness available to me through the presence of the Holy Spirit working in me. I long to reflect that gentleness in my countenance, words, and actions every day.

If you find you are struggling with conflict in a relationship, I encourage you to listen to the voice of the Holy Spirit and let His gentleness change your heart and heal the hurt.

Thank you for joining us today. If you would like to learn more about OhSoFree Ministries, please visit us at www.ohsofreeministries.com.