True courtesy

In God's word we are told to 'show courtesy' (see Titus 3:2). The Greek word here for 'courteous' doesn't mean 'polite yet ineffectual'; it's used to mean a beast that was wild, but that's now under control. Want a good example? Moses was described as humble or meek (Numbers 12:3) but could still confront a rowdy bunch of Israelites when they needed it.

Titus 3 is about living as citizens of God's Kingdom in a world that doesn't often reciprocate God's expression of love. When it tells us to be courteous, it's more than kindly holding the door open. It's asking for Moses-like (and... Jesus-like) consideration of the most loving response in each situation. It's asking us to squash our human anger when we need to, and let through a God-inspired 'what do you think you're doing' when it's appropriate. It means knowing when to hold back, and when not to. It's being aware of the frailty of humans. It's holding back on a reactive response that could only inflame a situation.

As followers of Jesus, aiming to live like he did, our job is to fight strong for what's right, while remembering that no one (including ourselves) has it all together yet.



So what now? Are you prone to expressing strong opinions with people or on social media? Even for worthy causes? Next time, before you rip into your reply, stop and think about how Jesus would respond: be gentle and show courtesy to everyone (Titus 3:2 GWT). You can share your heart and respect others.





— SCRIPTURE —

'Be gentle and show courtesy to everyone.' Titus 3:2 GWT
— SOULFOOD —

Judg 7:1-9:33, Matt 12:15-21, Ps 129, Pro 13:9-10