Colossians 4:5-6 ESV
Walk in wisdom toward outsiders, making the best use of the time. Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person.

Here’s something that’s obvious but often overlooked: Everything everyone does makes sense to them. The neighbor you think mows their lawn the wrong way? They don’t agree. That co-worker who offered an opinion that opposed yours? They did so for a reason. We may not understand their motives or actions, but the people around us are operating in ways that make sense to them.

When we don’t take time to understand others’ viewpoints, we rush to hasty, destructive conclusions that often manifest in words we later regret: “That makes no sense.” “They’re so stupid.” “How could anyone believe that?” Unfortunately, we often say these things behind the person’s back. We post our opinions online or share them with a friend, not even giving our target the opportunity to respond.

That’s not what God intended. Your words are your responsibility. If there’s something you don’t agree with or don’t understand, ask questions. The goal isn’t to align with the other person. The goal is to honor them. You don’t have to agree, but you should maintain a posture of respect.

2 Timothy 2:23-26 ESV
Have nothing to do with foolish, ignorant controversies; you know that they breed quarrels. And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but kind to everyone, able to teach, patiently enduring evil, correcting his opponents with gentleness. God may perhaps grant them repentance leading to a knowledge of the truth, and they may come to their senses and escape from the snare of the devil, after being captured by him to do his will.

What’s one area where you are quick to judge? It could be a political view, a religious practice, or a lifestyle choice. Whose viewpoint are you quick to excuse as errant or foolish? Try asking questions. Seek to understand. It might save you from words you’ll regret.