Sound speech, that cannot be condemned; — Pure in speech so that others can not find fault in their words. that he that is of the contrary part may be ashamed, having no evil thing to say of you. —Christians are to rise above the level of those in the world who would use words to cause harm to others. Take heed to thyself, and to thy teaching. Continue in these things; for in doing this thou shalt save both thyself and them that hear thee (1 Timothy 4:16). By maintaining the proper attitude and disposition in the face of adversity, you will not only prevent others from having occasion to speak badly of you, you may also be able to draw them to Christ.