Speak With Respect

Speak with Respect

I have chosen to be faithful; I have determined to live by your regulations. Psalm 119:30

In addition to speaking the truth gently and in love, it is important to wrap the words in respect. An excellent example of this is found in 1 Samuel 1:1-17, where we read of Hannah’s heartbreak over her childless condition. One year, during the family’s annual trek to the Tabernacle, Hannah, in anguish, moved her lips as she silently prayed for a baby. When the chief priest, Eli, misunderstood and accused her of drunkenness, Hannah had several choices.

She could have lashed out at him, saying, “I was praying! Boy, you aren’t a very good priest if you can’t tell the difference between someone who is drunk and someone who is praying. Just see if I ever come here again!”

She could have tearfully slipped away, wringing her hands and whining to the Lord about being wrongly accused.

Instead, she chose a third and correct response: She communicated directly and respectfully with her accuser. In verse 15, Hannah gently answered Eli’s accusation: “‘Oh no, sir!’ she replied. ‘I haven’t been drinking wine or anything stronger. But I am very discouraged, and I was pouring out my heart to the LORD.’”

After hearing her respectful statement, Eli said, “In that case . . . go in peace! May the God of Israel grant the request you have asked of him” (1:17).

By the next year, Hannah was the mother of Samuel, a future godly priest. Undoubtedly, that blessing was the result of her respectful response.

—SANDRA

Lord, I’m often quick to defend myself, convinced my words will open another’s eyes. But the reality is, I’m prone to “shoot from the lip.” Help me to remember that you are my defense. Help me to guard my mouth against quick retorts and to think before I speak.

Raised voices lower esteem. . . . Sharp words dull respect.

—WILLIAM ARTHUR WARD (1812–1882)