How to get out of a fight

The Bible is so practical.  Proverbs 17:14 says "Starting a quarrel is like a leak in a dam, so stop it before a fight breaks out." Think back to the last time you got in an argument with a friend or loved one.  What could you have done to plug the leak?

• refrain from that snippy comment (Psalm 39:1 - "I said to myself, 'I will watch what I do and not sin in what I say.  I will hold my tongue...'")
• offer a gentle word rather than more fuel for the fire (Proverbs 15:1 - "A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare.")
• resist the urge to justify your actions (Luke 16:15 - "He said to them, 'You make yourselves look good in front of people, but God knows what is really in your hearts. What is important to people is hateful in God's sight.'")
• listen attentively instead of interrupting (James 1:19 - "You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry.")
• treat the other person as Jesus would and not like they deserve (Psalm 103:10-11 - "He (God) does not punish us for all our sins; he does not deal harshly with us, as we deserve.  For his unfailing love toward those who fear him is as great as the height of the heavens above the earth.")

So the next time a fight threatens to dismantle another one of your relationships, stop it at the onslaught.  You'll be so glad you did plus you'll be obeying God to boot.