Do not repay evil with evil or insult with insult.
—1 Peter 3:9
Once a word is spoken it can’t be called back. Damage done by harsh words can’t be undone.
Churches are split, feelings are hurt, and relationships are splintered by biting words.
Angry words are lightly spoken,
Bitt’rest tho’ts are rashly stirred,
Brightest links of life are broken
By a single angry word.
—H.R. Palmer
“If anyone considers himself religious and yet does not keep a tight rein on his tongue, he deceives himself and his religion is worthless” (Jas. 1:26).
“Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak …” (Jas. 1:19).
Think carefully before speaking carelessly.
When you get into an argument you have a small chance of scoring a point—and a big chance of losing a friend.
You don’t have to attend every
argument you’re invited to.