For additional notes and resources check out Douglas’ website.

Today's podcast (12 mins) is on "Avoiding Rash Judgment" (Book 1, Chapter 14), "On Restraint of Our Words" (Book 1, Chapter 10), and "On Avoiding Gossip" (Book 3, Chapter 24).

Scripture: Matt 7:1-2; Jas 3:7-9; Matt 26:41; Eph 4:29; John 21:22; Rom 14:12; Ecc 1:14; John 2:25; Rev 3:20; 1 Pet 4:7.Thought questions:* Am I aware of how my own issues (and inner confusion or turmoil) affect the accuracy of my thoughts? Or am I overconfident in my judgment, usually assuming that my first impression or response is on track?* How conscientiously do I attempt to cultivate empathy with others, including seeing the matter from his or her point of view?* Am I easily drawn into the "drama" of others, at times when discussion is actually fruitless?* Do I gossip? Do I listen to gossip? Am I allured by the gossip of the world (in glossy magazines, sports stats, political opinions, talk about people behind their backs...)?* Do I "watch and pray" in order not to idle way our time?* When I am in a conversation, do I tend to steer it in a spiritual direction, or away from such a direction?* Do I have friends of "kindred minds and spirits"?* In my attempts to share with others, am I truly communicating, or simply racking up relationships, seeking to be popular or well-connected?

Next: "On Desiring Eternal Life" (Book 3, Chapter 49)