Avoiding Arguments

• Consider your words before speaking

• • “The heart of the righteous ponders how to answer.
  • But the mouth of the wicked pours out evil things.” (Prov. 15:28).
  • “There is one who speaks rashly like the thrusts of a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.” (Prov. 12:18).
  • “If anyone considers himself religious and yet does not keep a tight rein on his tongue, he deceives himself and his religion is worthless.” James 1:26

• Avoid attributing motives—we can say what motives appear to be. God knows the heart.

• Use “I” messages instead of “you” messages—which is less threatening. “I feel…” rather than “You are always…”