Politeness Is "Benevolence In Small Things"

Politeness has been defined as “benevolence in small things” (source). A true Christian recognizes the rights and feelings of others, even in the most trivial matters. In society, he is quiet and unobtrusive. He does not portray an individual who is “stuck up” nor does he look down upon others because they are not formally educated, or have not received any special honors or titles. He is frank, but respectful in the stating of his views on any subject. He possesses all of the characteristics of politeness which the apostle Paul attributes to love in 1 Corinthians 13.

Well-known American writer and poet, Ralph Waldo Emerson, once commented: “A beautiful form is better than a beautiful face; a beautiful behavior is better than a beautiful form; it gives a higher pleasure than statues or pictures; it is the finest of the fine arts” (source).

There is no society where smiles, pleasant looks, kindness, gratitude, and graciousness are not welcomed. Little courtesies may seem small, but over time, accumulate into important treasures as we interact with others.

True politeness is but the golden rule put into action (Matthew 7:12). Bad manners and embarrassing rudeness is indicative of a lack of love and concern for others (1 Corinthians 13:5). Loving to “give” (Acts 20:35) rather than “to get” only comes by “walking in the light” of God’s word (1 John 1:7; Psalm 119:105).

Beloved, those individuals who continually walk in the footsteps of Christ, will mirror an attitude of politeness (1 John 2:3-6; Hebrews 12:1-2).

—Mike Riley, Gospel Snippets