CHRISTIAN MODERATION

Philippians 4:5 Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand.

To the church at Philippi, and to all Christians today, Paul wrote this admonition - Let your moderation be known to all men. To emphasize the importance of this teaching, he then gives us this warning - The Lord is at hand. All Christians are to realize that the Lord is always near us; close enough to hear our every prayer; close enough to sustain our physical lives, to guide every aspect of our conduct, and to give comfort and encouragement in times of sorrow and disappointment. With His nearness, we must always remember that He is also close enough to observe our every act of obedience or disobedience.

To say "the Lord is at hand" could indicate His nearness to our lives here on earth. It could also mean the end of time, and that the Day of Judgment is fast approaching and is very near. However, only our Creator and Savior knows the Day of Judgment, and since death is assured to everyone, I believe this phrase, as it is used in the lesson text, is merely a reminder of the closeness of God to each of us as we journey through life. We can "touch" God, and He can "touch" us. We are close enough to "speak to each other." Moderation, as it is taught in this passage, is not a suggestion from God, but a commandment. With His nearness, we are assured that the Lord is totally aware of how we regard His laws, which can be found in His word - the Bible. With the complete knowledge of His omnipresence, Christians will be more apt to obey His will, and conduct their lives with the moderation He requires. The urgency to obey God's will should always be present in the life of every Christian. We should all seek the closeness of God through consistent, daily praye,r and the study of His holy word. With knowledge that God at our side, righteousness will more likely be the path we choose to travel.

Indeed, moderation is a righteous trait every Christians should accept, believe, and incorporate in every aspect of their lives. From Adam Clarke's Commentary we have this observation. He said that moderation is translated from the word epieikes, and has the same meaning as epieikeia, which is "mildness, patience, yieldingness, gentleness, clemency, etc." He then quotes Dr. Macknight who said "moderation means meekness under provocation, readiness to forgive injuries, equity in the management of business, candor in judging the characters and actions of others, sweetness of disposition, and the entire government of the passions." I like this definition because it seems to carry a meaning that is broader than merely governing our passions and appetites, by avoiding their excesses and extremes.

Passions must be restrained; under a control; the exercising of godliness. The desire to use our talents and abilities in our business or profession must be free from greed, envy, and covetousness. We must be given to soberness and free from the narcotic effects of alcohol, drugs, etc. Tempers must be controlled, giving way to a demeanor of mildness, gentleness, and propriety. Forgiveness, forbearance and mercy must govern our lives, and replace the sinful characteristics of vengeance, retribution, and vindictiveness. The entire 14th chapter of Romans is a good commentary on moderation, in its broad sense. An in depth study of this chapter will give one a better understanding of God's required Christian characteristic of moderation.

The reason for moderation is summed up by Paul with this statement, Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another (Rom. 14:19). By letting our moderation be known to all men, we, indeed, make peace, and edify others. Just how should Christians let these godly characteristics be known to all men? The word "edify" tells us that it should be done for the benefit of others. There is a spiritual benefit of "laying up treasures in heaven," and it is only accomplished through the motivation, and accomplishment, of our good works for the edification and benefit of others.

Godliness is not to be displayed in a boastful, showy, or pretentious manner. It is not to be egocentric acts designed and carried out to bring recognition or acclaim to ourselves. Jesus told us that the giving of alms (or any form of charity), and the offering of prayer (or any form of worship), is not to be done to be seen by others (See Matt. 6:1-7). The Pharisees, Jesus warned, were not to be our spiritual examples because their works they do for to be seen of men (Matt. 23:5). Let every Christian examine their heart. What is your motivation?

Moderation in all things is required of all Christians. By obeying this, and all of His commandments, we demonstrate God's will to the world. The world will see and be edifiedthrough the actions of every Christian.Be assured, the Lord will observe our motives for doing His will, whether they are charitable or selfish. The Lord is at hand.