What does EGW write about...
Adventistische Schriften über: "How do people respond to those who meet them with condescension?"
Answer
When we are confronted with condescension or mistreatment, the most important response is often silence, because a storm of angry words rarely overcomes evil. We are called to act after the example of Christ, repaying evil with good and meeting unfriendly attacks with courtesy and meekness. It is advisable not to engage in unnecessary disputes, but to leave judgment to God and preserve our own character through patience. True self‑control is shown in that we do not allow the arrogance of others to provoke us, but respond in a spirit of love and humility. By remaining kind, we reveal the power of God at work within us.
Christian Response to Condescension and Mockery
Think of Jesus and what He suffered for you, and be silent. Even if you are mistreated and falsely accused, do not complain; speak no word of grumbling; let no thought of accusation or dissatisfaction enter your mind. ... “Conduct your walk among the nations honestly, so that when they slander you as evildoers, they may glorify God on the day of visitation through the good works they see you doing.”
It may be a heavy cross to remain silent when you actually want to answer. It may be a painful discipline, but let me assure you that silence contributes far more to overcoming evil than a storm of angry words.
Do not grow weary of doing good. Love as brothers, be compassionate, be courteous: Do not repay evil with evil or a curse with a curse, but rather bless; knowing that you are called to this so that you may inherit a blessing. ... Who will harm you if you are followers of the good?
Choose not to respond to most of their attacks. For if you did, you would be distracted from your actual work by engaging in useless quarrels. Take to heart a wonderful rule: When we are persecuted, we endure it. When we are reviled, we bless. When we are slandered, we ask kindly. ... Involve yourself as little as possible in the distorted chatter of the enemies of truth.
Master yourself; this is the best rule in the world. By donning the adornment of a gentle and quiet spirit, ninety‑nine out of one hundred difficulties that make life so terribly bitter can be avoided. ... The natural man must die, and the new man, Christ Jesus, must take possession of the soul.
Above all, there should be no shadow of hatred or ill will, no bitterness or sharpness in expression. Nothing but kindness and meekness can flow from a heart full of love. ... Remember that the success of a rebuke depends greatly on the spirit in which it is given.
- Self‑control and Silence
- Overcoming Evil with Good
- Following Christ in Conflicts
Original Sources (English)
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