Christian Courtesy

[Thompson, Darryl]

Christian Courtesy

     As I have loved you, that ye also love one another. John 13:34  

     The value of courtesy is too little appreciated. Many who are kind
at heart lack kindliness of manner. Many who command respect by their
sincerity and uprightness are sadly deficient in geniality. This lack
mars their own happiness and detracts from their service to others. Many
of life's sweetest and most helpful experiences are, often for mere want
of thought, sacrificed by the uncourteous.  

     The Holy Scriptures give us marked examples of the exercise of true
courtesy. Abraham was a man of God. When he pitched his tent he at once
erected his altar for sacrifice and invited God to abide with him.
Abraham was a courteous man. His life is not marred with selfishness, so
hateful in any character and so offensive in the sight of God. Witness
his conduct when about to separate from Lot. Though Lot was his nephew,
and much younger than himself, and the first choice of the land belonged
to Abraham, courtesy led him to forgo his right, and permit Lot to
select for himself that part of the country which seemed to him most
desirable. Behold him as he welcomes the three travelers in the heat of
the day and hastens to provide for their necessities. Again observe him
as he engages in a business transaction with the sons of Heth, to
purchase a burying place for Sarah. In his grief he does not forget to
be courteous. He bows before them, although he is God's nobleman.
Abraham knew what genuine politeness was and what was due from man to
his fellow men.  

     We should be self-forgetful, ever . . . watching for opportunities
to cheer others and lighten and relieve their sorrows and burdens by
acts of tender kindness and little deeds of love. These thoughtful
courtesies, that, commencing in our families, extend outside the family
circle, help make up the sum of life's happiness. 

>From My Life Today - Page 192