Philippians 4:5 “Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand.”
It takes no strength at all to get mad and blurt out harsh and angry words. It takes no strength at all to say things just because it comes to our mind. It takes no strength at all to follow the impulse to constantly correct other people’s behavior. It takes no strength at all to insist upon putting ourselves first. It takes no strength at all to constantly condemn others who are not as perfect as we see ourselves. It takes no strength at all to demand retribution of those who disadvantage or offend us. It takes no strength at all to constantly condemn others because we think that we have the Doctrine right and they don’t. The greater strength is shown in our ability to moderate (control) ourselves, our emotions, our demeanor, and our behavior. It takes much strength to put others first and be ready to look over and forgive others. It takes great strength to “Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.” (Colossians 4:6) and “Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.” (Hebrews 13:5). It takes great strength to walk in truth and declare the truth, but to also walk and declare it with grace, and meekness, and gentleness, and kindness, and patience, and brotherly love. Our “moderation” is keeping ourselves humble and gentle and always forgiving those who offend us and overlooking faults in others and controlling our human nature, which is to be self-centered and demanding of others. A very wise and talented Commander once told his young officers, “As officers, you have a lot of power, but the mark of a good leader is not having to use it.” So, it is with Children of God, we have various strengths and talents, but our Christianity is most effective when we moderate ourselves with humility and gentleness and kindness and brotherly love. This “moderation” is our Christian Badge, it is that blessed Spiritual-Character that declares our love for and faith in our Lord Jesus Christ. It is that holy attribute that marks and identifies us as faithful Children of God. We are Commanded to let our “moderation be known unto all men”; that is, not only to our friends and family and Church members; but, to everyone we meet. This loving attribute attracts other Children of God to us. When we fail to moderate ourselves, we drive them from us.