It is good advice to slow down a little, steady the course, and focus on the essentials when experiencing adverse conditions.
Dieter F. UchtdorfRead
There is no end to the creativity, ingenuity, and tenacity of those who look for reasons to criticize. They cannot seem to release their grip on grudges. They gossip and find fault with others. They nurse wounds for decades, taking every opportunity to tear down and demean others. This is not pleasing to the Lord, 'for where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work' (James 3:16).
Interpretation
What this quote means
Criticism often stems from jealousy and negativity, leading to harmful behaviors.
In this quote, Dieter F. Uchtdorf emphasizes the destructive nature of criticism rooted in envy and grudges. He suggests that those who focus on finding faults in others not only spread negativity but also disrupt harmony, which is contrary to virtuous living. The reference to James 3:16 further underscores the biblical principle that strife and envy lead to confusion and evil conduct, urging individuals to reflect on the impact of their critical attitudes on themselves and their communities.
Themes
CreativityIngenuityTenacityCriticismGossipGrudgesNegativity
In practice
Example use cases
Sharing this quote at a leadership seminar to highlight the importance of constructive feedback.
More from Dieter F. Uchtdorf
All quotes βAbsolute truth is not dependent upon public opinion or popularity. Now what is this truth? It is His gospel. It is the gospel of Jesus Christ.
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We have a choice. We can seek for the bad in others. Or we can make peace and work to extend to others the understanding, fairness, and forgiveness we so desperately desire for ourselves. It is our choice; for whatever we seek, that we will certainly find.
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There are few things that have filled me with such breathless awe as flying in the black of night across oceans and continents and looking out my cockpit window upon the infinite glory of millions of stars.
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No, God does not need us to love Him. But oh, how we need to love God! For what we love determines what we seek. What we seek determines what we think and do. What we think and do determines who we are - and who we will become.
Dieter F. UchtdorfRead
Heavenly Father is constantly raining blessings upon us, but it is our fear, doubt, and sin that, like an umbrella, block these blessings from reaching us.
Dieter F. UchtdorfRead
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