Hardness Drives People Off, Love Draws Them

"We know that we have passed out of death into life, because we love the brethren." - 1 John 3:14

Many Christians stand up loyally for what is right, yet by the hardness of their attitude they offend against love. They have grown obsessive about righteousness, but deficient in charity. True, as Christian we should never compromise over the righteousness of God, but at the same time we should not strive with others.

Men and women are won by love, not by its opposite. In your contact with people, do not offend them. It is necessary, certainly, for you to obey God and not tone down His commands, but this should not lead you to offend your fellowmen by your attitude or your words. Hard inflexibility should give way in you to meekness and gentleness. That way, many will be attracted to the Lord. Hardness drives people off, but love draws them.

The Joyful Heart (Watchman Nee 主僕倪柝聲弟兄)

Read the Scriptures: 1 John 3