As Christians, we have a responsibility to let our “moderation be known unto all men” (Philippians 4:5). The term here is often restated as “reasonableness” or “gentleness,” both of which convey a sense of wise self-restraint.
With much surmised then spouted on a host of hot topics that are reported hastily (and often incompletely), it’s easy to become outraged with the first telling of any story. We’re better served when we do due diligence in making a conclusion: “He that is first in his own cause seemeth just; but his neighbour cometh and searcheth him” (Proverbs 18:17).
And as a matter of self-restraint on social media and in personal conversations, we say a lot about Christ when we wait, in order to speak factually and reflect the truths of God’s Word: “Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath: For the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God” (James 1:19-20).
We are called to strongly oppose injustice, act courageously, and help the weak. And our rescue efforts speak the loudest when they’re motivated from Christian charity: “Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal” (1 Corinthians 13:1).
And the only way to do this effectively is to set our hearts on trusting the Lord with gratitude for His overwhelming love: “Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice. Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:4-7).
So as we hear about Chick-fil-A ending its relationship with solid ministries like the Salvation Army and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, the latest report or testimony from Capitol Hill, or the goings on of a neighbor down the street . . . stop, pray, gather facts from trustworthy sources, and let your moderation be known to all.
May you have a blessed and full Thanksgiving celebration this year . . . and ALL year long.
