SCRIPTURE: Proverbs 25:15 Patience can persuade a prince, and soft speech can break bones.

OBSERVATION: Few realize that patience can be the best pursuasion strategy. We usually think that if we come on strong and go for the "yes" as quickly as possible we will get the best results. However, many times it is simply being available, answering questions and proving that we are "trustable" over time that will bring a person to our way of thinking.
The second part is counter intuitive as well. We think that we can pressure people into change but it is often the "soft speech" the gentle entreaty that brings people around.
For many of us, especially those who are accustomed to the high power, you must act now approach, this may be new thinking. But, if you want to be pursuasive, it is also wise thinking.

APPLICATION: Recently I was in a semi-conflict where I really wanted to make someone see things from my perspective and act accordingly. I failed. They simply cut me off. I realize now that patience would have been a better approach. I see that in trying to "lever" them into talking, I just pushed them into a harder, more resistive stance. I need to learn to do better next time.

PRAYER: Lord, help me to remember that all I need is in You. I don't have to "make" anyone do what I want them to do. May I have the interpersonal peace that comes from getting all my needs met by You and not feeling so desparate to get a desired response from someone else.