Characteristics of Love #6 – Not Rude

“(Love) is not rude . . .” I Corinthians 13:5 (NIV)

Rude and unmannerly conduct is often smiled at and even celebrated in America, as people are encouraged to just “be yourself.” Without proper role models and discipline, children grow up to be very obnoxious and disorderly. If a child is left to just “be himself,” he will naturally become rude and unmannerly.

Godly love does not behave this way. Love considers the effect of behavior upon others. Love is kind and extends the common courtesy of considering the feelings of others. Kindness is a virtue that must be exercised.

Exercise love today by speaking ONLY words that are UPLIFTING and ENCOURAGING to those around you. Paint a beautiful picture with your WORDS. Proverbs 25:11 says, “A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver.”Make your words PROFITABLE today. Remember, Jesus said that, at the judgment, every idle (unprofitable) word will be called into account. (See Matthew 12:36.)

Your tongue can be an unruly evil . . . a source of rudeness. James 3:8 calls it a “deadly poison” that no man can tame, except by the help of God. So how will you exercise love and kindness today?

PRAY:
“Dear heavenly Father, I turn away from any foolish jesting and idle talk to honor You today with my words. Let me have Your mind and Your heart in all of my relationships.  In Jesus’ Name, amen.”