In what ways can we replace "wine of violence" with acts of peace?

◄ How can we swap violence for peace? ►

Understanding “the wine of violence”

Proverbs 4:17: “For they eat the bread of wickedness and drink the wine of violence.”

- “Wine” pictures something we willingly take in, enjoy, and even depend on.

- Violence is more than physical harm; it includes harsh words, manipulative actions, or any behavior that wounds others (cf. Psalm 11:5).

- God calls us to empty that cup and be “peacemakers” instead (Matthew 5:9).

Emptying the cup: renouncing violent patterns

- Refuse revenge—leave judgment to God (Romans 12:17-19).

- Abandon hateful speech—“Let no unwholesome word proceed out of your mouth” (Ephesians 4:29).

- Turn from toxic entertainment that normalizes aggression (Psalm 101:3).

Filling the cup with acts of peace

1. Speak life-giving words

- “A gentle answer turns away wrath” (Proverbs 15:1).

- Compliment instead of criticize; bless instead of curse (James 3:9-10).

2. Serve sacrificially

- Meet a practical need (Galatians 6:10).

- Volunteer in community projects that build, not tear down (Isaiah 58:10-12).

3. Practice active reconciliation

- Initiate apologies quickly (Matthew 5:23-24).

- Mediate conflicts between others with patience and fairness (2 Corinthians 13:11).

4. Intercede in prayer

- Pray for those who wrong you (Luke 6:28).

- Ask the Lord to soften hearts—yours first, then others’ (Ezekiel 36:26).

5. Model calm under pressure

- “Be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger” (James 1:19).

- Respond to provocation with quiet strength, showing Christ’s control (1 Peter 2:23).

Harvesting the fruit of peace

- Personal peace guards heart and mind (Philippians 4:7).

- Households become safe havens (Proverbs 17:1).

- Communities notice a “reason for the hope” within us (1 Peter 3:15).

Staying filled with the better wine

- Daily Scripture intake renews thinking (Psalm 119:165).

- Fellowship with godly believers encourages consistent peacemaking (Hebrews 10:24-25).

- Remember Christ’s example: “He Himself is our peace” (Ephesians 2:14).