How Does a Christian Handle Rude Comments and People

Do you often wonder why some can be so ugly when responding or commenting to another? Do you wonder what you should have said to an individual who has been rude, demeaning or evil to you? Do you walk away from a verbal altercation thinking how should I have handled the actions of that rude individual? Do you walk away thinking of a word, comment or question that would have put them in their place?

Years ago, I asked the Lord to order my steps, my tongue, and my walk so all I do will be pleasing to Him and glorify the Father Who is in Heaven. Gradually, I began to realize that the words of a person while they might cause you to feel hurt for a moment, they can cause no physical damage. The words of a person can return to the person and cause them more harm.

Later, I began to realize and understand that even if some found the actions of an evil doer interesting and took entertainment in the hurt inflicted upon another, I would not allow myself to entertain anyone at the expense of my soul. I further realized that when I found myself the target of ugly or evil, I did not have to say a word. Generally, I find that someone observing the actions of another would step in and defend or they would provide a comment or word that would encourage or support me. In other words, the battle would not be mine to fight; another individual would fight it for me.

God's Word tells us in Romans 12:19 "Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, "Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord."

Proverbs 29:11 "A fool gives full vent to his spirit, but a wise man quietly holds it back."

James 1:19-20 "know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God."

Each verse quoted above describes the way a Christian who loves the Lord should handle a person who has harmed them either in word or deed. When reading newspaper comments on line, website comments or forum comments, there are those who just seem to never have a good word for others or those who feel they have to demean others; they are always or consistently rude to others. These individuals never have a good word to say. Even when the comment made is not directed to them, these individuals have to interject adding their signature rude comment.

Sometimes, others often wonder what is wrong with an individual that never has anything good to say! They are never positive. They seem to be habitually offensive and disrespectful to others. You just figure, that the person is quite lonely, unhappy or just down right evil.

Never allow the evil, rude actions or comments of another to take you down to their level. Keep your focus and remain happy. It's best to completely ignore the remark or make a comment that will make the other individual feel as low as they generally are without diminishing your character.

Always follow the will of the Lord. Never jeopardize your relationship with the Lord. As a Christian and one who dearly loves the Lord, I recommend that when you feel the heat of anger coming on due to the actions of another, follow the word and will of God. Remember WWJD (What Would Jesus Do).

How Does a Christian Handle Rude Comments and People: Pray for the Offender

There is power in prayer. In God's word, He tells us to pray for others, pray for those who offend and hurt us. Mathew 5: 44-45, "But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which spitefully use you, and persecute you."

How Does a Christian Handle Rude Comments and People: Forgive the Offender

The Lord requires that if another has hurt you, you must forgive the offender. Colossi ans 3:13, "Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you." It's hard forgiving. Sometimes you might feel it impossible. But if you ask God, He will help you forgive the one who hurt you.

Christians, lovers of God, have a hard job. However, the reward for obedience to God and His word is everlasting life with God.