Verse 1
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It is massively unwise and selfish to isolate yourself or avoid cooperation with others. Always stay in fellowship with believers (Hebrews 10:25).
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To isolate is to be dislocated or disjointed from the body of Christ. The church only grows when members are joined together in fellowship (Colossians 2:19). Remember that you are harming the body when you dislocated yourself from believers.
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Verse 2
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It is foolish to want to express your personal opinion. Opinions are worthless. The truth of God's Word is what matters.
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Wherever possible, do not say what you think; say what God's Word says.
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Verse 8
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Understand that rumors have a deep and lingering negative effect on people. Do not spread rumors.
Verse 9
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Lazy actions are the same as destructive actions because laziness always leads to destruction of good (Proverbs 24:30-31).
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Remember that laziness makes you a destroyer, and do not be lazy!
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Verse 12
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Be humble if you want to be respected. Pride and ego are terrible things to have.
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Remember that having pride makes you a mocker of God's wisdom (Proverbs 21:24).
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Be careful to avoid pride and make efforts to keep yourself humble if you want to avoid this sin. You can fend off pride and build humility by:
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Seeking and receiving correction (Proverbs 13:1, 15:12, 15:32-33, 21:24),
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Serving others first (Matthew 20:25-28).
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Verse 13
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Never reply to someone before they have finished speaking.
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Speaking too quickly proves that you are not listening, and this is shameful.
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Verse 14
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Even in times of bodily sickness, a great attitude keeps endurance. But if a person is depressed, it is very hard for them to endure anything.
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Remember that the strength of your mind is more powerful than strength of your body in producing patience. Always focus on the Word to center your mind on the right things, and you will do well.
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Verse 18
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If people can't agree on something, it is a good option to leave the decision up to chance.
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Although not ideal, flipping a coin can help to end conflict. Ending conflict is most important, so put that outcome first.
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Verse 19
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People who are offended or bitter against you will not be won through force.
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Use gentleness and kindness to win back people who are offended.
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Verse 21
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Understand and respect the power that your words have to bring either death or life! Words are powerful!
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Keep this in mind, and you will be careful with your speech, which will bring much good into your life.
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Verse 23
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Wealth has the tendency to cause a person to be more insensitive towards those less fortunate. Don't let this happen. If you grow in wealth, put in extra effort to show kindness and mercy to those less fortunate than you (James 2:3-6).
Verse 24
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If you don't have many friends, one reason is that you aren't being very friendly.
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You will have to put in time, patience, and work to build relationships and show favor to others if you want meaningful friendships. Invest in others, and favor will return to you.