GOOD MANNERS

GOOD MANNERS
Matthew 5:14, 16; 7:12, 20
Good manners simply means, acting appropriately in a way that is socially acceptable.
It is a display of respect, care and consideration for others. It is also a show of excellent
character that helps you to relate better with people whom you already know or whom
you have just met. Good manners make your life to shine the gospel light for others to
see Jesus through your actions and not just your words.
There are several ways of showing good manners.
1. PRACTICE BASIC COURTESY: Luke 6:31
Courtesy is simply defined as „polite behaviour‟ that shows respect for other people.
Learn to say „thank you‟, „please‟, „excuse me‟ to people even if they do not seem to care
about it, notice it or acknowledge it. Do not shout but always speak with low voice
when speaking to others. Some people will definitely notice when you are courteous and
respectful to them. Such good manners will grant you favour with people.
2. SHOW PREFERENCE FOR OTHERS: Romans 12:10.
It is good to prefer others above yourself. If someone wants to push his/her way
through, you make way for the person to pass instead of struggling with him. Give up
your seat especially for elderly people, if there is nowhere for him/her to sit. You can
also hold the door open for someone coming closely behind you to pass instead of
leaving it to slam in his/her face.
3. SPEAK POLITELY: Titus 3:2; Matthew 12:36, 37.
Do not use abusive or harsh words on people. Avoid discussing rude or dirty topics likesensitive
parts of your body, gossips, dirty jokes or words that you will not want your
mummy or daddy to hear. Especially, words that will make Jesus unhappy with you.
Keep the volume of your voice as low as possible yet loud enough for your hearers. Do
not shout on or at people. Remember that God takes record of every word we speak.
4. LEND A HAND: Galatians 6:9, 10.
Assist people when there is a need for you to do so. When you meet your teacher or an
elderly person (whom you know well) on your way and you are going to the same place,
assist to carry his or her bag. When you go to a friend‟s house to call him/her for
fellowship, assist with the house chores so that he/she can finish in good time and
both of you will not go late to the fellowship.
5. CONGRATULATE PEOPLE: Romans 12:15a.
Rejoice with and congratulate people who have recently achieved success or something
very great. For example, congratulate and welcome a new friend of Jesus into the
family of God, a boy/girl who passed his examinations, a family who has just had a new
baby, bought a new car or moved into their new house. Even when you are defeated in
a sporting event or academic competition, congratulate the winner.
6. GREETINGS: Romans 16:3-16.
Acknowledge the presence of people around you and greet them appropriately.
Appreciate people and say “Thank you” for every kind word or deed. “Have self-control
and don‟t be a talkative in the midst of others. Do not be proud, a friend of Jesus must
be humble, warm and loving.
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7. GROOM YOURSELF APPROPRIATELY:
Whether you‟re going to school, church or any other outing, your good manners will go
unnoticed if you‟re not well groomed. Take a shower regularly, put on clean clothes,
keep your hair neat and your nails short every time. Above all, put on the life of Christ
every time; let the beauty of Jesus be seen in you everywhere you go. Remember, that
Matthew 5:16 says: “Let your light so shine before men that they may see your
good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven”.
Only friends of Jesus can shine as light. If you are not yet a friend of Jesus, take these
steps to become one;
-Acknowledge that you are a sinner
-Confess your sins to Jesus and ask for forgiveness and cleansing through His blood
-Invite Him into your heart/life as Saviour and Lord.
-Thank Him for the salvation of your soul.
-Pray for grace to be able to follow Him to the end.
As you take these steps, the blessings of God will be abundant in your life and He will
make you a Christ-like childlike Timothy (2 Timothy 3:15).