Civility Rules: What is Christian Etiquette?

In this world of hustle and bustle, it seems people have lost their basic civility toward one another. Alright, not everyone, but quite a few seem to have forgotten to "Be nice!" as our mothers hopefully taught us to be. And sadly, many of those who've lost their civility are Christians. So, in this column, I'm going to put forth suggested ways of civility. Even on our worst days, is it too difficult to simply show our fellow man a bit of kindness? After all, a soft answer turns away wrath, as Proverbs 15:1 tells us.

I do not suggest that there aren't situations wherein we must assert ourselves, but there are times that keeping our mouth shut is the best rule. If we ask for wisdom God grants it to us so that we'll know in which situations to assert ourselves and in which matters we need to just be quiet, as proper Christian etiquette suggests we should. Again, I repeat God's word, "a soft answer turns away wrath."

What do I deem as Christian etiquette?

If according to Merriam Webster's dictionary etiquette is, " 

: the conduct or procedure required by good breeding or prescribed by authority to be observed in social or official life", then Christian etiquette merely folds into basic etiquette the love of Christ. Proper etiquette blended with the love of Christ really is the ultimate way to preach the Gospel, for we do so with every step of our way! We are, in effect, living the Gospel of Jesus Christ before all men.

Why not recall with me the ways of kindness and proper etiquette, and in living a life of good Christian etiquette we share the love of Christ with our fellow man.

If you do not know Christ and want to learn how you can come to know Him and His great love for us, follow this link. This link opens to a page at my author's blog, Sand and Pearls II.

"Jesus Christ; the Savior."

Practice civility every day!

One way to be kind to others is not to jump to conclusions when someone appears rude. Perhaps the person is merely distracted, tired, sick, or in pain from chronic ailments. Their distraction may come across as rudeness. When we jump to conclusions and assume a person is treating us unkindly many times we fuel an unnecessary fire with our lack of civil behavior.

Instead, respond with kindness, understanding and mercy. Glance at the person's eyes. Perhaps you'll see the sadness and the longing for something more in their life. Perhaps their assumed rudeness is actually a cry for help. Show them the love of Christ. Give them Jesus, not a sharp-tongued retort and an unmerciful heart. Did not Christ show us mercy and grace? Humm, perhaps we, and I speak to myself! Perhaps we should remember to reciprocate with the same love Christ shows us. Now, I'm off to be tried on my words!

What are some ways you use Christian Etiquette in your life? Feel free to add a comment.

Blessings and God's grace go with you throughout your day.

"A soft answer turns away wrath,
      But a harsh word stirs up anger."
Proverbs 15:1 (NKJV)
Taken from
New King James Version (NKJV) Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc.