How We Act

“All of you be harmonious, sympathetic, loving, compassionate, and humble; not returning evil for evil or insult for insult, but giving a blessing instead; for you were called for the very purpose that you would inherit a blessing.”—1 Peter 3:8–9 NASB

The daughter of a wealthy architect, Emily Post developed a passion for good manners. She expressed those thoughts in her first book, a fictional story of life among socially gracious people during the turn of the nineteenth century.

Her real breakthrough took place when she published a book describing what she thought were proper ways people should act in various social situations. This catapulted her into the public limelight. She went on to gain fame as a broadcaster and writer of newspaper columns and books.

Through all these media, Post emphasized that good manners are based on common sense and a regard for the feelings of others. She revised her books frequently to consider changing social conditions and new patterns of behavior.

The Bible, too, is filled with exhortations about how we should act. For example, Peter wrote that we should “be harmonious, sympathetic, loving, compassionate, and humble.” Even when others insult us, we should not insult them in return. Rather we should seek to bless others and point them toward Jesus.

Remember, how you act will impact people all around you. Seek to live in such a way that others will see Jesus in you. Be more concerned about their spiritual condition than with your own benefits. Demonstrate the love of God in every situation and with everyone you meet. Seek to live in harmony and be gracious and compassionate.

Reflection Question: Do your Christian manners need to be brushed up?