Friday, November 1 Let a rotten word not come out of your mouth, but only what is good for building up.​—Eph. 4:29.

[Áine]

Friday, November 1

Let a rotten word not come out of your mouth, but only what is good for building up.—Eph. 4:29.

 

Profanity has no place on a Christian’s lips. But there are subtle forms of abusive speech that we also need to be on guard against. For example, we need to be careful not to make unfavorable comparisons when talking about people of other cultures, tribes, or nationalities. Further, we never want to hurt others with cutting remarks. Speak in a way that builds others up. Be quick to commend rather than to criticize or complain. The Israelites had much to be thankful for, yet they routinely complained. A complaining spirit can be contagious. You will recall that a negative report from ten spies caused “all the Israelites . . . to murmur against Moses.” (Num. 13:31–14:4) On the other hand, commendation can be a powerful force for good. So look for opportunities to offer sincere commendation. w22.04 8 ¶16-17

[StarHope]

"Be quick to commend rather than to criticize or complain."

 

I will admit I have a bad tendency to complain a lot. I'm working on it diligently. I'm trying to be more grateful for things and look for positives in people and in certain situations.