Speaking: First how we must speak of God

  Introduction to the Devout Life, Part III, Chapter 26

Doctors get a good knowledge of the health or the illness of a man by examining his tongue. Our words are signs of the qualities of our souls: By your words, says the Saviour, you will be justified and by your words, you will be condemned (Mt. 12:37).

(Read further in Introduction to the Devout Life, Part III, Chapter 26)

Sincerity in words and Respect due to others

  Introduction to the Devout Life, Part III, Chapter 27

If anyone does not sin in words, says St. James, he is a perfect man (Jas. 3:2).  Take great care that you do not let slip any unbecoming words from your lips.  Even though you may not say them with an evil intention, those who hear them may take them in a different way.

(Read further in Introduction to the Devout Life, Part III, Chapter 27)

Rash Judgements

  Introduction to the Devout Life, Part III, Chapter 28

Do not judge that you will not be judged, says our Saviour, do not condemn and you will not be condemned (Lk. 6:37).  No, says the Apostle, do not judge before the time till the Lord who will reveal the secrets of darkness and will manifest the counsels of the hearts comes (1 Cor. 4:5).  How displeasing to God are rash judgements!

(Read further in Introduction to the Devout Life, Part III, Chapter 28)

Slander

  Introduction to the Devout Life, Part III, Chapter 29

Rash judgements cause anxiety, contempt of our neighbour, pride, self-satisfaction and a hundred other very destructive effects.  Slander holds the first rank among these and is the real plague of conversations.

(Read further in Introduction to the Devout Life, Part III, Chapter 29)

Further Advice on Conversation

  Introduction to the Devout Life, Part III, Chapter 30

In your speech be gentle, free, sincere, straightforward, simple and truthful.  Be on your guard against duplicity, cunning and pretence.  Although it is not good to say always all kinds of truths, yet is never allowed to go against truth.

(Read further in Introduction to the Devout Life, Part III, Chapter 30)

Good Conversation

  Spiritual Conferences, Vol. 1, Conference 5

The virtue of good conversation demands that we promote pure and moderate joy. During the time of recreation, we have a friendly sharing.

(Read further in Spiritual Conferences, Trans. by Fr. Ivo Carneiro MSFS)

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