To Speak Respectfully
Loving Savior,
How I speak to and about others matters. When I speak negatively about someone to others, I am influencing their opinions about that person’s reputation. While there may be a time and a place for this when safety concerns or dangerous risks may potentially be associated with someone, more often than not, that isn’t the case. I am either speaking carelessly or thoughtlessly without any regard for the impact my words have on someone else’s reputation. Or, I am deliberately disparaging others with malicious intent. Forgive me, for I know that if the tables were turned and I discovered others speaking similarly about me, I would not stand for it. Don’t, therefore, allow me to be involved in any way with such talk of others.
Instead, lead me to speak respectfully of others, even when I disagree with them. Let my words be positive and encouraging, always seeking to build up the reputation of others or come to their defense. The world’s words aim to tear down and divide. May my words instead heal, restore, and unify whenever and wherever possible. May my words be worthy of your name that I bear and may they always honor you.
In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.