Good Behavior
Today’s Verse:
Be of good courage, and let us behave ourselves valiantly for our people, and for the cities of our God: and let the LORD do that which is good in his sight. ~1 Chronicles 19:13
The term “good behavior” refers to the right actions, conduct, and deportment that we expect of another person. We typically apply this to a mischievous child, someone guilty of criminal behavior, or a questionable public official whose conduct we expect will turn around and be above reproach and commendable.
We see the courage.
“Be of good courage, and let us behave ourselves valiantly for our people, and for the cities of our God: and let the LORD do that which is good in his sight.” The Israelites faced a strong challenge from the Syrians and Ammonites. Joab and Abishai encouraged one another to not flinch or show any hint of fear against their enemy. Fear is infectious. If a leader shows signs of fear, it spreads throughout the camp. Courage, likewise, is infectious. A bold and courageous leader encourages those who follow him to be resilient and fearless, no matter how large the enemy or threat is. Be of good behavior when it comes to courage.
We see the consecration.
“Ye are witnesses, and God also, how holily and justly and unblameably we behaved ourselves among you that believe” (1 Thessalonians 2:10). Paul knew that his character and testimony were under close scrutiny. He describes the testimony of him and his team as being holy, just, and unblameable among the Thessalonians. A godly testimony is a golden testimony. While we must proclaim the gospel, we must also live out a godly gospel witness. The unsaved need to see a testimony that demonstrates a separated and blameless lifestyle.
We see the caution.
“I will behave myself wisely in a perfect way. O when wilt thou come unto me? I will walk within my house with a perfect heart” (Psalm 101:2). Good behavior requires that we are cautious to live above reproach, even when in private. David knew that it is easy to let your guard down when you are home. David practiced prudence and caution in all his circumstances. When Saul tried to hurt him, David behaved himself wisely. David testified that in his house, he would walk before God and man with a perfect heart.
We see the commission.
“But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth” (1 Timothy 3:15). In 1 Timothy 3, Paul lays down the character requirements for a pastor and deacons. These requirements are so stringent that he said, “Let these also first be proved.” Serving in one of these two capacities is very influential. As a spiritual leader, you inspire God’s people when you live out a holy and biblical life. On the other hand, you can be a major stumbling block to the faith of an immature or weak believer.
Good behavior is the norm of the Christian life. We must be above reproach to all men. The model for spiritual leaders is that they are men of honest report. Let us live and model good behavior so that the unsaved are inspired to be saved and new believers are inspired that living such a life can be done.
Have an honorable God Morning!
Bible Reading Schedule: Psalms 32-35