Self-Control and Kindliness
In this paragraph we have good advice as to our dealings with the varied characters with whom we are forced into daily contact. Here is a man hard as a bone-try gentleness, for a soft tongue will win his heart, just because it finds a new and unexpected way of approach which no one else has tried for long years…. Beware of honeyed words; you may get stung.… Do not make yourself too common, or pry into your neighbor's affairs, or ask his help too often…. Keep clear of the tale-bearer.… Be very careful to whom you confide your troubles…. Vinegar poured on potash makes it effervesce; so joyous mirth is incongruous to a heavy heart…. Even if your love fails to meet your enemy, the Lord will reward you by revealing and communicating His own perfection, Matthew 5:43-48.… If you frown on a backbiter, you will silence him.… Do not give way to the wicked, lest you become a corrupted spring…. Rule over your spirit-nay, better, hand over its keys to Emmanuel, and let Him be crowned in Mansoul.