A Compelling Testimony: Maintaining a Disciplined Walk, Christlike Character, and Godly Relationships as God's Servant

Ses s i on 5: Cu l t i vat i ng Our Charac ter : The Outward Di sc i p l i nes 223

quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all people.

c. Ways of demonstrating courtesy

(1) Looking at others in the eye, and listening carefully to them

(2) Answering the questions and comments of others before you make your own points

(3) Speaking calmly and warmly to others

(4) Giving clear and excellent greetings to others

(5) Finding small ways to acknowledge others in care and service during our normal routines

4. Be open to demonstrate “direct hospitality,” that is, using your own monies, goods, and home to care for the personal needs of others, Heb. 13.2 – Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.

a. We should avoid “keeping score” on what we have given to others.

b. We ought to avoid the kind of giving that emphasizes “our stewardship” over “the needs of others.”

(1) Matt. 18.21-22 – Then Peter came up and said to him, “Lord, how often will my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? As many as seven times?” [22] Jesus said to him, “I do not say to you seven times, but seventy times seven.” (2) Matt. 5.39-42 – But I say to you, Do not resist the one who is evil. But if anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also. [40] And