Note: My title is tongue-in-cheek, an oxymoron—I realize it's name-calling.☺
“Name-calling” wreaks havoc with relationships.
It happens in formal debates and personal relationships.
Instead of listening to what others are saying and trying to understand their views, name-callers attack the character of those with whom they disagree. They beat up their opponents instead of sticking to the subject.
It always puts an end to reasonable, respectful discussion and makes problem-solving and reconciliation almost impossible.
People who do it may not realize it, but they are following the example of Satan, who's called the "accuser" of God's (Revelation 12:10).
When God convicts us of sin, He points out specific things we’re doing wrong so we can change and follow Him more closely. That's constructive criticism.(1)
When Satan accuses us, he uses generalizations attempting to make us feel like hopeless losers. That's destructive criticism.
Similarly, when name-callers disagree, they make broad generalizations and end all hopes of constructive discussion.
Let's heed the verses below and refuse to become name-callers, dear Christians.
"My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires." ~ James 1:19-20
"Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen." ~ Ephesians 4:29
(1) It's appropriate to give fellow believers constructive criticism, but we should do it gently, never with name-calling. Godly correction involves specific examples, not broad generalizations. See Matthew 18:15; 1 Corinthians 5:12; James 5:19-20.
For some other 1-minute devotions on godly speech:
6 Christian Rules of Speech
Shine Like Stars
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