| Titus 3:2 – “to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all people.” |
Harsh words shared in an unkind manner can linger in the atmosphere long after being spoken. Such words have a way of increasing stress, intensifying difficult situations, and eroding relationships – not only for the speaker and recipient of the divisive words, but for all witnessing the verbal fireworks.
Today’s text provides us with evasive maneuvers so our words may be gentle and not destructive. This involves not participating in gossip as either the sharer or recipient. While it does not mean ignoring troubling or frustrating behavior, it does involve limiting the discussion of the issue with only the person involved and/or the supervisor or someone in authority over the individual.
It also means responding with kindness and patience to those who are confrontational. Often, pausing to listen to someone’s concerns instead of trying to defend one’s position deescalates a tense situation. Finally, it includes consistently having a loving and respectful approach towards all people whether they are within our work settings, communities, or our own families.
- Phyllis Hooten
