stephen R Harrison

Proverbs 18 hit me this morning when facing conflict:

1. Seek to understand; don’t assume.
   “Fools find no pleasure in understanding but delight in airing their own opinions.” Prov. 18:2
2. Love face to face; don’t slander behind their back.
   “The words of a gossip are like choice morsels; they go down to the inmost parts.” Prov.‬ ‭18:8‬
3. Listen to my brother’s side; don’t ignore and judge.
   “To answer before listening— that is folly and shame.” ‭‭Prov. ‭18:13‬
4. Be fair; conflict involves more than one person.
   “The one who states his case first seems right, until the other comes and examines him.” Prov. ‭18:17‬
5. My words can make it better or worse.
   “Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits.” Prov. 18:21
6. Be merciful, not rude!
   “The poor plead for mercy, but the rich answer harshly.” Prov. 18:23‬