Can we have some good old fashion manners toward each other here?

William Wilberforce is a model for speaking truth in love. He had strong opinions. He was an eloquent debater. But he was also gracious and civil. We need to adopt Wilberforce’s model of civility today, especially since so many in the political arena have become shrill and contentious. I’m Kerby Anderson, and that’s my point of view.

“God Almighty has set before me two great objects, the suppression of the slave trade and the reformation of manners (morality).”

– William Wilberforce

As I have listened over the years to the social and political arguments of the day, especially  the latest about Senator Ted Cruz and his stand against the health care system that is trying to be implemented, the above comments and statements really ring true. It’s not the argument or disagreements that bother me, hey, I love a good debate. No, it is the mocking, finger pointing and literally trying to tear down the opponent through scoffing and ridicule. If you would like to see this in God’s Word and what God’s kids did about it read Nehemiah chapter 4, very powerful teaching! Don’t get me wrong, republicans, democrats and everyone in between have been guilty of this but that does not make it right.

My Grandma would say, if you disagree with someone or something going on better to pray about it first and foremost and seek God’s guidance and direction because taking matters into your own hands, thinking on your own thoughts and ideas will get you into trouble. 1 Corinthians 11:31 states: For if we would judge ourselves, we would not be judged.

Does this mean we shouldn’t disagree or state our case and cause? Absolutely not, but do it in a gracious and civil manner with correct manners and human dignity that sadly so many are lacking.