Why Is It Important Never to Tolerate Evil?

Criticism is often linked to cynicism, primarily because of the negative attitudes of a person trying to cope with the pressures and stressors of life. Cynicism projects a distrust for the motives, goodness, or sincerity of others. Triggering cynicism is a sarcastic attitude.

The message of cynicism is that people are basically bad and the only way to cope with problems is through power struggles and criticism. In this mindset it’s obvious that criticism and cynicism produce unhappiness and trouble in what could be loving relationships.

An alternative to pessimism and criticism is seeking clear, positive corrections and solutions to a negative mindset. Listen, as Psalm 101:2 provides the option. “I will behave wisely and live a pure life. I will never tolerate evil.” 

God instructs us to model his grace and mercy in place of being critical or cynical, so be careful how you live.  

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Be very careful, then, how you live – not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.

~Ephesians 5:15-16 New International Version

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The Necessity of Integrity for Communication

A basic principle for effective communication is, never assume the meaning you ascribe to words will be in compliance with other people’s understanding. In the workplace where men and women relate to each other professionally and personally, sexual innuendoes, cursing, and dirty jokes often enter a conversation.

Most individuals in the workplace have appropriate ethics that govern their speech. Still, there can be misunderstandings regarding what is said and how words are interpreted, so make it an imperative to avoid assuming that your understanding and perspective parallel that of those who are listening.

Effective communication does not assume that similarities in the meanings of words are identical for everyone. Words may have subjective meanings relative to a person’s experience. Integrity and honesty identify God’s boundary for effective communications. Psalm 101:2 offers guidance: “Be careful to live a blameless life by leading a life of integrity.” 

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Better is a poor person who walks in his integrity than a person who is perverse in speech and is a fool. 

~Proverbs 19:1 New American Standard Bible

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