Proverbs 18:21; 25:11; Job 19:2; James 3:8-10; 1 Peter 3:10
- Be ready to listen and do not answer until the other person has finished talking. Proverbs 18:13; James 1:19
- Be slow to speak. Think first. Do not be hasty in your words. Speak in such a way that the other can understand and accept what you say. Proverbs 15:23, 28; 21:23; 29:20; James 1:19
- Speak the truth always, but do it in love. Do not exaggerate. Ephesians 4:15, 25; Colossians 3:9
- Do not use silence to frustrate the other person. Explain why you are hesitant to speak at this time.
- Do not become involved in quarrels. It is possible to disagree without quarreling. Proverbs 17:14; 20:3; Romans 13;13; Ephesians 4:31
- Do not respond in anger. Use a soft and kind response. Proverbs 14:29; 15:1; 25:15; 29:11; Ephesians 4:26-31
- When you are in the wrong, admit it and ask for forgiveness. James 5:16 When someone confesses to you, tell them you forgive them. Be sure it is not brought back up to that person in an unforgiving way. Proverbs 17:9; Ephesians 4:32; Colossians 3:13; 1 Peter 4:8
- Avoid nagging. Proverbs 10:19; 17:9; 20:5
- Do not blame or criticize the other person. Instead restore... encourage... edify. Romans 14:13; Galatians 6:1; 1 Thessalonians 5:11. If someone verbally attacks, criticizes, or blames you, do not respond in the same way manner. Romans 12:17, 21; 1 Peter 2:22 ff; 3:9
- Try to understand the other person’s opinion. Make allowances for differences. Be concerned about their interests. Philippians 2:1-4; Ephesians 4:2
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