Dealing with People
Dealing with People
The Main Idea of the Lecture
His Holiness Pope Shenouda III speaks about the foundations of wise dealing with people, emphasizing that human relationships require discernment, wisdom, love, and humility, and that one method should not be applied to everyone.
1) Wisdom in Dealing
He explains that every person has a different nature and psychology; therefore, people should not all be treated in the same way. Wisdom requires knowing when to speak and when to remain silent, and when to respond and when to ignore, so as not to be drawn into fruitless discussions.
2) Not Responding to Evil with Evil
He stresses the biblical principle of not returning evil for evil or insult for insult, but overcoming evil with good. He refers to the examples of David and Joseph the Righteous, who did not treat those who wronged them in the same way, but left judgment to God.
3) Love and Endurance
True love appears in patience and endurance, but with discernment, because endurance can reform some people while causing others to become worse. Therefore, the suitable approach must be chosen for each person.
4) Humility with Wisdom
Humility is an essential virtue in dealing with people, but it must be mixed with wisdom, so that it is not misused. Humility without wisdom may lead to disorder or loss of respect.
5) Frankness and Guarding Speech
Not all frankness is beneficial, and not all rebuke is useful. The wise person knows when to speak and what to say, and does not reveal his secrets to everyone, but weighs his words and considers their consequences.
6) Discernment and Avoiding Naivety
Love does not mean naivety; not everyone should be believed. Matters must be examined, and truth distinguished from falsehood, while remaining cautious without offending or hurting others.
Summary of the Message:
Correct dealing with people is based on wisdom, love, humility, and self-control, while leaving judgment to God and striving to win souls through a spiritual approach befitting the children of God.
Wisdom – حكمة
Love – محبة
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