“Contempt Ruins Relationships”
Beloved, every relationship can survive disagreements, but few survive contempt. Disagreement says, “I don’t see it your way.” Contempt says, “You’re beneath me.” And when that seed is planted, love begins to wither, trust begins to fade, and hearts begin to harden.
Scripture warns us in Proverbs 15:1, “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” Contempt doesn’t just stir up anger—it suffocates connection. Where there should be grace, contempt replaces it with criticism. Where there should be compassion, it replaces it with coldness.
Paul gives us a better way in Ephesians 4:29: “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” When we choose to honor instead of despise, when we choose to build instead of belittle, relationships are strengthened rather than destroyed.
So Beloved, guard your words, check your heart, and refuse to let contempt take root. Disagreements can be healthy, but contempt is poison. Choose humility. Choose love. Choose to lift others up, not tear them down.
Pray with me:
Father God, help me to root out any contempt in my heart. Give me words that build up, not break down, and eyes to see others as You see them. Heal the places where bitterness has taken root and replace it with love, patience, and grace. In Jesus’ name we pray, believe, receive, and praise. Amen.
4GIVEN 