“We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves. Let every one of us please his neighbour for his good to edification.” Romans 15:1-2
Romans 15:1-2 teaches that we that are strong ought to help the weaker. We are not just to please ourselves, but rather help teach others to do right and build them up in the Lord. Our greatest example is Christ who bore our sins on the cross.
There’s an old English proverb which states, “You can catch more flies with honey than with vinegar”. Tis true. We can also apply this to life. How many times have you been in a situation where you were yelled at by someone which resulted in an argument rather than come to a peaceful agreement? What about the opposite? Do you remember a situation where you were upset about something and someone only had kind words to say which helped you to calm down?
“A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.” Proverbs 15:1
People generally are drawn to kindness and quickly repelled by criticism. Our love for others will prove to the world that Christ is real. Remember to be sweet and loving with your speech. We need to make the most of every opportunity to be a light for Christ.
“Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.” Colossians 4:6
“Kindness has converted more sinners than zeal, eloquence, or learning.”- Frederick W. Faber (1814-1863), British Hymn writer & Theologian.
