Tuesday’s Column: Dale Mail

The Bible is filled with so many helpful verses on daily living. Many of us can find it difficult at times to work with people, especially if we’re having a stressful day. Here are eleven practical passages that will help us in our interactions with others this week. 

1. A soft answer turns away wrath, but harsh words stir up anger 
   (Proverbs 15:1) 
2. The wise of heart is called perceptive, and pleasant speech increases 
   persuasiveness (Proverbs 16:21) 
3. Be gentle and show courtesy to all people (Titus 3:2) 
4. Do good to everyone (Gal. 6:10) 
5. Bear one another’s burdens (Gal. 6:2) 
6. As you wish that others would do to you, do so to them (Luke 6:31) 
7. Discern your own thoughts, identify your intentions (Heb. 4:12) 
8. Treat others like you would treat Jesus. How would you interact with 
   Him? (Matthew 25:40) 
9. Season your speech with grace. It’s the Savior’s All-Spice for every relationship-building goal (Col. 4:5-6)
10. Praise God and be joyful, it attracts people (Psalm 100:1-5)
11. Be ready for every good work, speak evil of no one, avoid quarreling, be gentle, show courtesy to all people (Titus 3:1-15) 

One thing you might notice about these scriptures is how many of them deal with our speech. According to the book of James, the tongue is incredibly difficult to tame. Reading these verses, it becomes clear that there are several advantages of placing the bridle over our lips.