How Are You Known?
Go-getter. People person. Irritable. Upbeat. Tenderhearted. Opinionated. Timid. Perfectionist. Harsh.
I’m not willing to write some of the words with which people characterize others, but we know what they are. Based on characteristics, personality traits, actions, or just our own perceptions and moods these words form images in minds that can be positive or negative, and they
definitely affect how others react to us.
In the fourth chapter of Philippians, Paul issues several commands that are to shape the mindset of all Christians, and they shape perceptions as well. One is found in verse five.
“Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand” (Philippians 4:5, KJV).
This verse follows Paul’s reminder at the end of chapter three that this world is not our home (Philippians 3:20), and we are waiting for the return of our Savior Jesus Christ. This hope is a driving force in all that we do and say, causing us to stand fast in the Lord (Philippians 4:1). He goes on to admonish two women who are at odds with each other to make peace (Philippians 4:2), and he encourages the believers to support each other (Philippians 4:3). Paul is in prison and trials may abound, but he reminds us that the Christian mindset is one of rejoicing (Philippians 4:4). There is always reason to rejoice in the Lord.
Finally, we reach the command in verse five. The word “moderation” carries the meaning of graciousness, gentleness, or sweet reasonableness. It builds on what he has asked of the believers in the first four verses of chapter four, and it carries out the intention of Philippians 2:5-8 where we are instructed to have the mind of Christ.
What is wrapped up in this thought of moderation or sweet reasonableness? Here are just a few things that come to mind.
· I don’t insist on my rights.
· I may need to lay down my liberty for the good of others.
· I don’t hold a record of wrongs. I trust God to make things right. (Romans 12:19)
· I don’t insist on being first. (Philippians 2:4)
· I maintain a common mindset of mutual service.
· I understand that I can’t choose for others even as I seek to share the gospel with them. I invite, but I don’t lord over others. Only God can save.
· I allow the Holy Spirit to grow the fruit of gentleness and kindness in me. (Galatians 5:22 – 23)
· Moderation also carries the thought of balance, so I stand firm in God’s truth even when others are compromising. I speak God’s truth in love. (Ephesians 4:15)
In our world of loud, demanding voices, the idea of moderation, or sweet reasonableness, can seem out of place. Perhaps some would even interpret it as weak. But like meekness, moderation is a controlled strength. It operates as a mindset, a will that has been submitted to the authority of the Holy Spirit.
Moderation is a choice that says, “I choose to do things God’s way and trust Him for the outcome.”
God’s way. That is always a safe road to travel.
I want to be known for my moderation. Maybe you do, too.
God can help with that.
“Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you with all malice: and be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you” (Ephesians 4:31 – 32, KJV).
“Father, I know there are times that I am not known for my sweet reasonableness. Forgive me. When things don’t go my way, let me see Christ on the cross. Things didn’t go His way either, but He hung there for me. When I’m tempted to demand my way, remind me that Jesus didn’t demand His way. Grow me to be more like Him. In Jesus’ name I pray.
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