Laai die Bybeltoep af5 Ways to Build Bridges When the World Wants Us to Choose a SideVoorbeeld
Step 4: Dignify Others With Our Words
The dictionary defines dignity as “the state or quality of being worthy of honor or respect.” Every person God made is worthy of dignity, so it’s our responsibility when communicating with others to use words that demonstrate respect and care.
When we are in the heat of the moment, it is easy to demean people with our words. I do not think the Psalms and Proverbs would be filled with wisdom about taming the tongue if it weren’t a problem for so many. But as Christians, it is our duty to speak to others with kindness and respect, and I cannot think of a better example of this than Jesus and the Samaritan woman.
In John 4, we read that Jesus went out of his way to meet the woman at the well. Most likely this woman, due to her marital history, was used to being treated poorly. In fact, many people suggest she was visiting the well during the hottest time of day to avoid other people altogether. Imagine being so disrespected by society that you’d rather absorb the heat than risk the barbs of other people’s words.
As you read this account, notice how Jesus speaks to her. His words are direct, but they are kind. While the disciples cannot figure out why Jesus is talking to her at all, he is treating her like an important person—someone with something to offer. Next time you are conversing with someone about a difficult topic, make sure you are respectful and kind. Jesus set the model for us, and we can be sure that our own words will be better received by someone who feels we have treated them with dignity and respect.
As you read this account, notice how Jesus speaks to her. His words are direct, but they are kind. While the disciples cannot figure out why Jesus is talking to her at all, he is treating her like an important person—someone with something to offer. Next time you are conversing with someone about a difficult topic, make sure you are respectful and kind. Jesus set the model forus, and we can be sure that our own words will be better received by someone who feels we have treated them with dignity and respect.
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Have you looked around recently and wondered how the world became so divided? If so, you’re not alone. Discord is an epidemic, and we’ve all experienced its side effects—almost to the point where we wonder if the problem is incurable. As Christians, our job is not to make duplicates of ourselves; it’s to make disciples of Jesus. What follows are some steps we can take toward unifying the church, one conversation at a time.
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