The Father's Menu

The Father's Menu

Apostle Dr. Richard Udoh

Saturday, August 8, 2020

COURTESY – THE PLACE OF THE HOME

Good manners begin at home. A parent or adult in good manners is the best example for any child. How we behave and speak to others will greatly influence those around us. Good manners require practice and effort, so it pays to teach children the basics early. Simple etiquette and common courtesies—like saying “please” and “thank you,” how to behave when eating, not interrupting or rushing to be first in line, helping elders or disabled, responding when spoken to—can go a long way in helping to interact with others. Leviticus 19:32 “Show respect to the aged; honor the presence of an elder;...” (MSG) Courtesy should come naturally and shouldn’t be something we need to plan or think about. In this, parents should be mindful of their own example in how we deal with our children and others, before expecting this behavior of our children. Titus 3:2 “No insults, no fights. God's people should be bighearted and courteous.”

A good attitude in maintaining good manners and courtesy is to consider others more worthy than ourselves.  Philippians 2:3 “When you do things, do not let selfishness or pride be your guide. Instead, be humble and give more honor to others than to yourselves.” (NCV) If we have respect for all individuals, no matter their age, race, or personality, courtesy will be genuine. Everyone feels happy and important when respect, care and consideration are shown by others.

Today’s world does not promote good behavior; therefore, it is important the matter is taught and practiced. The world is largely a “me” society, and many, young people especially, have somehow adopted the attitude of needing everything right now. 1 Peter 3:8 (NKJV)

The only way to do what Peter recommends is to consider others more important than ourselves. This can be quite hard to do in this competitive world we live in. We have to win in everything. We have to be in the fastest line at the bank or store, etc. If we fail to do these things, what happens? We are life’s losers, right? Of course not! There is no pain in living a courteous life. It does not cost us a thing to tell someone, “No, you go first.”

Confession: I declare that because God is my refugee and the Almighty God of my home, no evil can befall me, no plague can come near my dwelling. I declare that God has ordered His Angels to guard, defend and protect me. God’s Armies of heaven will keep me from falling.

 Further readings:

Luke 6:35;

But love ye your enemies, and do good, and lend, hoping for nothing again; and your reward shall be great, and ye shall be the children of the Highest: for he is kind unto the unthankful and to the evil.

1 Thessalonians 5:15;

 See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men.

Read through the Bible: Ruth 1 & Acts 26