Civility

Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone. Colossians 4:6

Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. Matthew 5:9

A gentle answer deflects anger,

but harsh words make tempers flare. Proverbs 15:1 [NLT]

These are important words for our time from the Bible, God's Holy Word. There is harsh polarization in our times, and the danger that this hostility can escalate into violence should concern all of us. We see in history and in many parts of our world today the devastating effects of violence spawned by hostility and polarization. America has achieved an astounding and wonderful ability to disagree and still shake hands because we have been in touch, perhaps in a more profound way in the past than today, with the importance of unity and the common goals that unite us.

All people who desire freedom and a peaceful society should diligently practice civility. Hate feeds on hate; and hateful words project hate. Civility is “formal politeness in behavior and speech”. Speak truth. But remember that all necessary truth can be communicated with civility; and the message is more likely to be heard and properly responded to when spoken respectfully—even, perhaps especially –to those who are not practicing civility. Humility is a necessary component also because none of us has the exclusive corner on all truth. We must be willing to listen to those differing from us, even if we don't agree. Please be a “peacemaker” in your social communications, and encourage others to do so also. Some of them will hear. And you will be doing something important for our world.

Mark Graham

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