Seven points from Ray Ortlund. Read the post to see the scriptural backing for each point.
- We can rejoice in one another, because the Lord rejoices in us.
- We can create an environment of trust rather than negative scrutiny.
- We can judge ourselves, even as we give each other the benefit of the doubt.
- If a problem must be addressed, we can talk to, not about. Gossip destroys.
- If a problem must be addressed, we can avoid blanket statements but identify factual specifics, offer a positive path forward and preserve everyone’s dignity. “You are ___________” is too absolute to be fair. It leaves a person with no freedom to improve. Better to say, “In this situation, when you _____________, that set us back. It would be helpful if, in the future, you would ______________. What do you think? And is there anything I can do that might help?”
- We can always extend kindness.
- When we do wrong one another, we can say to the person harmed, “I was wrong. I am sorry. It won’t happen again. Is there anything I could do now that might make a positive difference?”
