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Displaying a Good Conscience: Politeness
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsPoliteness is more than outward manners; it reflects an inner goodness and benevolence. In America, politeness and good manners have declined over recent decades, once being central to education and public behavior. Despite this, there remains renewed interest in restoring civility, as manners are essential to maintain respect, peace, and social harmony. A failing culture is often characterized by rudeness, marked by poor manners and a lack of consideration for others. The devaluation of politeness is typical of a debased society, evident in children who no longer respect their parents and display rudeness, impatience, and a lack of self-control. Rudeness involves acting in a disrespectful, impolite, or offensive way, while politeness encompasses courteous language, kind empathy, considerate actions, and respectful behavior. Courtesy involves kind behavior that considers the comfort and feelings of others, kindness entails being considerate and empathetic, consideration involves careful thought and discernment, and respect means valuing others' feelings, rights, and opinions. These concepts are intertwined with politeness, and offenses in interactions often stem from a lack of it, also called poor etiquette or rudeness. Politeness demonstrates good manners through words and actions, following accepted social rules that help unite society. Though invisible like the wind, politeness has a substantial effect on society's well-being and relationships. Guided by principles of politeness and common sense, these rules encourage social interaction and are essential for maintaining composure and decorum. Good manners are as important as laws, giving life shape and color through a steady, constant, and subtle influence. Historically, cultures like the Greeks, Romans, Chinese, and Europeans have emphasized etiquette, though often without true moral encouragement. In the United States, politeness and etiquette are often passed down in families of wealth and prestige but rarely taught to the general public. Over 70 years ago, public schools focused equally on good manners and academics, teaching children to bow to strangers, whereas now, profanity and disrespect are more common. Despite an abundance of bad manners, interest in etiquette persists, with many books available on the subject. The nation's principles of freedom have not prevented irresponsibility, impoliteness, and discourtesy, casting a shadow of disgrace upon the country. Politeness is a key part of avoiding the impression of evil and is an expression of benevolence, a desire to make others happy. True politeness should be rooted in kindness, not superficial courtesy. It is also an expression of the Golden Rule: do unto others as you would have them do unto you. Good manners are a duty, recognized by society as polite, pleasant, and respectful, reducing conflict and encouraging smooth interactions. Violating good manners is inexcusable on moral grounds, and everyone has a duty to follow the rules of politeness, showing goodwill and kindness. Polite language is pleasing to the ear and calming to the heart, while harsh words have the opposite effect. Good manners and a good conscience are always attractive when combined, and bad manners often result from poor morals. In family relationships, when parents fail to teach children politeness, it reflects poorly on them and damages relationships. Family bickering and strife from a lack of courtesy turn homes into barren wastelands. Mutual respect is the foundation of genuine affection, and even small matters of speech are significant. Children are greatly influenced by their parents' behavior, and unkind words or breaches of politeness between parents harm both themselves and their children. Teaching children politeness requires consistency, patience, and respect, modeling a lifestyle of empathy and kindness. Politeness grows when children practice kindness, show gratitude, and receive recognition for considerate actions. Mistakes be
Courtesy
'Ready Answer' by Mike FordThese days, everyone demands respect but few are willing to grant it. It is a rare event when someone gives up his seat or when a child shows deference.
Perfect, Gentle Courtesy (Part 2)
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsGood manners are not just an accomplishment, but a duty that everyone must practice in order for society to move smoothly.
Courtesy
Sermonette by Mike FordGod's word has much to say about politeness and rudeness. A Christian who is taught to put others first will have little difficulty being courteous.
Perfect, Gentle Courtesy (Part 3)
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsParents are obligated to teach God's laws to their children. According to Emily Post, good manners are to the family what good morals are to society.
Displaying Virtuous Character
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsSelf-control has both an inward and outward dimension, the latter concerned with human relationships, manners, and reflecting God's orderly mindset.
Displaying Gentle and Patient Conduct
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsGod's people must follow the spirit of the law regarding the treatment of others, being humble, sincere, and gentle, esteeming others before themselves.
American Manners?
Commentary by John W. Ritenbaugh (1932-2023)The far-left media, collaborating with liberal 'progressives,' have successfully destroyed the manners and dignity of the nation.