Precious Moments That Count For EternitySample

The Lord is Near

Smile! You are on camera.’ This friendly notice at most shops and establishments is a warning in disguise to anyone who may not be on their best behavior. It serves well to remind people that they are being watched by unobtrusive eyes, so better behave in an appropriate manner.
Similarly, Paul seems to be encouraging the Philippians and us, to be gentle, kind and peaceful towards all, at all times.
Isn’t it interesting that the more you read the Word the more you understand it? Today’s simple instruction from Paul seems, initially, only an encouragement to us to show Jesus’ love to all so that all may know Him before He comes, which is soon. On repeated reading, you realize Paul is explaining that it is difficult to love certain people and their strange ways; yet with the Holy Spirit in us, and always at hand, the impossible now becomes possible.
But wait! Paul also had another aspect in mind. The Lord loves us and wants us to reflect Him and, in turn, show His love to others. After getting to know Christ, people show a change in their behavior. They turn away from their former evil ways and become gentle. However, some display this new found mellowness only to fellow Christians or only to authority, thinking this is where they need to be on their best behavior. But Paul reminds us that the Lord is near, He is watching. Our conduct should never be found wanting. We have to be genuinely peace-loving, gentle and kind to all, always because that is what the Lord expects of us.
So, let’s not grieve the Holy Spirit by our selective good behavior. His eyes are on us! (1 Peter 3:12).

Prayer
Lord, I want to treat people like You would. Always. So help me Lord. Amen.