Good manners are not just an accomplishment, but a duty that everyone must practice in order for society to move smoothly.

Meekness is one of the hardest virtues to define. The Bible shows meekness to be strength, as the character of such people as Jesus and Moses shows.

The fifth fruit of the Spirit, kindness, reflects God's loving actions toward us. We in turn must learn to bestow kindness on others.

We like to think we are tender-hearted, but sometimes we fail to appreciate what others are really going through. Compassion is more than tender-heartedness.

Our manners express our personality, especially as they portray humility, courtesy, or gentleness, and are improved as we make use of God's Spirit.

Righteous anger is unselfish. Sinful anger occurs when our desires, ambitions, or demands are not met, always focusing on satisfying the self.

Mercy is a virtue that has gone out of vogue, though it is sometimes admired. Jesus, however, places it among the most vital His followers should possess.

We desperately need to internalize the godly traits of kindness, mercy, compassion, and tenderness, displacing the carnal traits of bitterness and wrath.

Whether we are called to welcome others, speak truthfully, keep commitments, or guard our own speech, credibility flows from consistent daily actions.

Parents 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.

Driving out the evil must be followed by cultivating goodness and righteousness. An antidote to depression is to get our hearts focused on someone else.

Self-control has both an inward and outward dimension, the latter concerned with human relationships, manners, and reflecting God's orderly mindset.

Because kindness is love in action, we must galvanize our thoughts into concrete behaviors, including offering encouraging words and performing uplifting deeds.

Jesus demonstrated His meekness in His treatment of many with whom He interacted. Balancing firmness and gentleness, He seeks to save rather than destroy.

We all have low days, but when our despondency turns to self-pity, we have a problem. 'Woe is me' can hamper our growth because it is self-centeredness.

As Joshua felt fearful at assuming leadership, most men also feel the same trepidation, but God Almighty has placed in their DNA the ability to lead.

Joseph's example proves that even the most difficult temptation can be resisted and overcome, though this skill must be developed incrementally.