What are some alternatives to nagging? - Nagging - TouchPoints

Galatians 5:26Let us not become conceited, or provoke one another, or be jealous of one another.

Instead of nagging, we should follow the Holy Spirit’s lead and not irritate one another.

Ephesians 6:4Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them. Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.

When giving guidance to our children, we are to discipline and instruct them by what we find in Scripture, but we must do so without exasperating them.

Matthew 5:23-24“So if you are presenting a sacrifice at the altar in the Temple and you suddenly remember that someone has something against you, leave your sacrifice there at the altar. Go and be reconciled to that person. Then come and offer your sacrifice to God.”

Matthew 18:15“If another believer sins against you, go privately and point out the offense. If the other person listens and confesses it, you have won that person back.”

Luke 17:3-4“So watch yourselves! If another believer sins, rebuke that person; then if there is repentance, forgive. Even if that person wrongs you seven times a day and each time turns again and asks forgiveness, you must forgive.”

2 Thessalonians 3:15Don’t think of them as enemies, but warn them as you would a brother or sister.

Patterns of nagging and frustration can be addressed in an honest, heart-to-heart conversation. While explaining our own frustrations is part of this, seeking to understand the other person’s perspective and apologizing for our part in the conflict are equally important. After setting new expectations for moving forward, we must resist the urge to resume nagging—after all, he or she already knows what we want. If we want the other person to fulfill his or her responsibilities, we must first fulfill our responsibility by showing patience and respect.

Proverbs 15:1A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare.

Galatians 6:1Dear brothers and sisters, if another believer is overcome by some sin, you who are godly should gently and humbly help that person back onto the right path. And be careful not to fall into the same temptation yourself.

When giving helpful guidance to others, we are to be gentle and humble.