Pro 11:12 Whoever belittles his neighbor lacks sense, but a man of understanding remains silent.
The commandment to love our neighbors as we love ourselves continues to suffer in our time as I recently shared. We read, hear or experience racism, bigotry, fights, murder, road rages, threats, belittling, school bullying, cyber bullying, etc. Words from the lips are a result of what is harbored in the heart. Heart left unchecked may result into damaging actions.
W.A.R as an acronym spells out We Are Right. There are times for it but we should strive for peace. Silence is recommended as an instance of true friendship, and a preservative of it, and therefore an evidence of our love for our neighbors. We ought to strive to build our neighbors rather that tear them. Peter encourages believers with these words, “Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins” (1Pe 4:8).
An intelligent man is slow to condemn, slow to speak, is empathetic, makes allowance for others’ difficulties, and, if he cannot approve, at least knows how to be silent and with wisdom talk over issues. “Finally, brothers, rejoice. Aim for restoration, comfort one another, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you.” (2Co 13:11). The true test of our love for God is our love for our neighbors. Jesus said, “By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” (Joh 13:35).