Being and Doing – 26 August – Finding Fault

FIND fault, if you must find fault, in private if possible;  and some time after the offence rather than at the time.   The blamed are less inclined to resist when they are blamed without witnesses;  both parties are calmer, and the accused party is struck with the forbearance of the accuser, who has seen the fault, and watched for a private and proper time for mentioning it.

SYDNEY SMITH

THERE is more dignity and hope of success in a simple expression of disapprobation on the discovery of fault, accompanied by a declaration that all further explanation is reserved for a calmer moment, than in any heated reprimands.

Mdme. NECKER DE SAUSSURE

HE HAD the rare art of giving comfort, advice, and even blame with such almost humble gentleness, such entire freedom from any assumption of superiority, that it could not wound the sorest heart, nor irritate even the most rebellious spirit.

From Life of F. W. Robertson

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These quotes are from ‘Being and Doing’ A selection of helpful thoughts from various authors arranged for daily reading.

Collected by Constance M Whishaw and first published in 1908 for members of the Being and Doing Guild whose object is to do all they can for the relief of suffering and misery.

Most of the writers are 19th Century Christians from Britain and Europe who were committed to living their faith through deeds as well as words – Being AND Doing.

For many years these words have kept me company and encouraged me on the journey of faith.  I hope they will encourage others also.