“Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand.” – Philippians 4:5
No one ever said that living a Christian life would be easy. Even Jesus said that we would face persecution in our lives. “These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33) Through it all, we are urged to live a life that continually reflects Christ to the world. Our “moderation” should be visible to all.
A life of moderation encompasses many things. We are to demonstrate kindness to others, be gentle in spirit, and to forbear or be considerate of others even those who do not show these attributes toward us. Living a life of moderation is difficult at times, especially when injustices occur. Whether these injustices are individual or corporate, not demanding our own rights can be a daunting task. We want to insist that our rights not be infringed upon, yet these self-righteous urgings often spring forth from a troublesome spirit that is more carnal than spiritual. Paul reminds us that we must learn to be content in all situations. He wrote in Philippians 4:1, “Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.” Our faith in the Saviour should propel us toward being a more compassionate witness for Him, whereby others can see the joy of the Lord in us despite the circumstances surrounding us.
In the wake of societal turmoil, Christians can take a stand. However, we must not react in the same ways as we see the world doing. We must stand for what is right in the sight of God, but we must do it in a way that honors God. If the lost cannot differentiate between Christians and the world, they will have no reason to turn toward Christ. It is only in our separation of behaviors that our testimony has any validity. But this validity does not come without a price. In John 15:19, Jesus said, “If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you.”
When we chose to live for Christ, we will face opposition. It is precisely in those moments that we must “Let your moderation be known unto all men.” Our reactions must be Christ-like in every situation. Our mannerisms, our lifestyle, our attitudes must all reflect Christ. This is what impresses the hearts of the lost. We offer a better way… a new and living way through the Lord Jesus Christ.
It is not the easiest life to which Jesus has called us, but through the power of His Holy Spirit, we live in such a way as to honor and glory God. “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me” is the truth of God’s Word, and it is this truth that works through us to His glory (1 Thessalonians 2:13). This world needs what only God can provide. Let us live our lives so as to point others to the Saviour.
If not in you, I wonder where
Will they ever see the One who really cares?
If not from you, how will they find
There’s One who heals the broken heart,
And gives sight to the blind?
And if not you, I wonder who,
Will show them love, and love alone can make things new?
If not from you, how will they learn
There’s one who’ll trade their hopelessness
And give joy in return?
You’re the only Jesus some will ever see,
And you’re the only words of life some will ever read
So let them see in you the One in whom is all they’ll ever need
‘Cause you’re the only Jesus some will ever see.
(from “You’re the Only Jesus” by Gordon Jensen)
“And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.” – Ephesians 4:24
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“Don’t shine so others can see you. Shine so that through you others can see Him.” – C.S. Lewis