Week of November 8, 2019
“Bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do. But above all these things put on love, which is the bond of perfection.” Colossians 3:13-14 (NKJV)
Courtesy is the outward expression of inner spiritual maturity. Someone who is genuinely courteous is humble and never tries to impress others. Their attitude is the same regardless of whether they are talking to Kings or beggars. They treat everyone alike, no matter what race or ethnicity they are. They rejoice in helping to make the path easier for others to travel.
It is impossible to say that we love God while at the same time treating our neighbor with contempt. Courtesy is not something you switch on and off. Either it is a part of you, or it is not. If not, it is because the Holy Spirit is not controlling our life. When the Holy Spirit is the dominating influence of our life, we reflect the qualities of Christ in our life. Love and courtesy are essential characteristics of the Christian life, and they are qualities that are loved by those we encounter.
God Bless, Pastor Rick