Chapter 26—Love and Kindness
Kind, Comforting Words—When poor, wounded, bruised souls
come to you for words of hope, you are to speak to them the words of
Christ. Do you refuse to give them pleasant, courteous, kind words?
Those who speak as Christ spoke will never plant bitter words like
barbed arrows in the wounded soul. “The Lord hearkened and heard.”
Will you bear in mind that the Lord hears the words we speak, and
is acquainted with the spirit that prompts our actions? ... Is it not
Christlike to speak kind words, comforting words, even though you
feel inclined to do otherwise?—
The Review and Herald, May 26,
1896
.
Law of Kindness on Our Lips—Work disinterestedly, lovingly,
patiently, for all with whom you are brought into contact. Show no
impatience. Utter not one unkind word. Let the love of Christ be in
your hearts, the law of kindness on your lips.—
Welfare Ministry, 76
.
Thoughtful Attentions—Every soul we meet is the purchase of
the blood of Christ, and kind words and thoughtful attentions are due
those who come among us. The youth need the help of kindly words
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and deeds.—
Manuscript 33, 1911
.
The Truth in Love—As the dew and the still showers fall upon
the withering plants, so let words fall gently when seeking to win men
from error. God’s plan is first to reach the heart. We are to speak the
truth in love, trusting in Him to give it power for the reforming of the
life. The Holy Spirit will apply to the soul the word that is spoken in
love.—
The Ministry of Healing, 157
.
Less Criticism, Greater Influence for Good—In the work of
helping others, we may gain most precious victories. We should
devote ourselves with untiring zeal, with earnest fidelity, with self-
denial, and with patience, to the work of helping those who need
to develop. Kind, encouraging words will do wonders. There are
many who, if a constant, cheerful effort is put forth in their behalf,
without faultfinding or chiding, will show themselves susceptible of
improvement. The less we criticize others, the greater will be our
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