Discernment in Reproof
93
trol not only our words, but our thoughts and imaginations. Let us
be kind, be courteous in our words and deportment. There is a great
neglect in this respect.—
The Review and Herald, April 29, 1884
.
Sour Christians—The good qualities which many possess are
hidden, and instead of attracting souls to Christ they repulse them.
If these persons could see the influence of their uncourteous ways
and unkind expressions upon unbelievers, and how offensive is such
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conduct in the sight of God, they would reform their habits, for a lack
of courtesy is one of the greatest stumbling blocks to sinners. Selfish,
complaining, sour Christians bar the way, so that sinners do not care
to approach Christ.—
Our High Calling, 229
.
Hard Words—Hard words beat upon the heart through the ear,
awakening to life the worst passions of the soul and tempting men and
women to break God’s commandments.—
The Adventist Home, 439
.
The Correcting of Children—Harsh, angry words are not of
heavenly origin. Scolding and fretting never help. Instead, they stir up
the worst feelings of the human heart. When your children do wrong
and are filled with rebellion, and you are tempted to speak and act
harshly, wait before you correct them. Give them an opportunity to
think, and allow your temper to cool.—
Child Guidance, 246
.
Rude Angles and Rough Points—The sharp, rude angles and
rough points in our character, the manifestations of selfishness in
unkind words and actions, tear away the delicate fabric of human love
and happiness.—
The Review and Herald, July 18, 1893
.
Servants of the Wicked One—He who drinks in the spirit of
Christ will let it flow forth in kind words, and be expressed in courteous
deportment.... But those who profess the truth and at the same time are
rough, and sour, and unkind in words and deportment, have not learned
of Jesus; all these manifestations show that they are yet servants of the
[143]
wicked one.—
Our High Calling, 238
.
Education of Our Lips—Let us make a covenant with God that
we will not speak one word of envy or unkindness. Let not your
lips dishonor God by fretful words of complaint and dissatisfaction.
Educate your lips to praise Him from whom all blessings flow.—
The
Review and Herald, May 1, 1888
.
Unnecessary Disputing—Unless some question of vital impor-
tance is involved, be ready to yield your own opinion rather than to
create a dispute. Even though you may by argument gain your point,