"Doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil..." (1 Cor. 13:5 KJV).

Courtesy is love in society. It doesn't behave unseemly. It is always polite, at home as well as in public, with all classes of people. This type of love is never rude or discourteous.

In other words, if you are courteous, you do not act up in public. It is a shame how some people tear down their spouse in public. One thing I hate is to see people leaving church and then arguing in the church parking lot.

I remember when we were in a particular church building, my office was right over the parking lot. So, I could look right out my window and see, every so often, a couple would be arguing right in front of the church, and in front of their kids.

That is obviously not the love of God. This love in society is always polite and is comfortable at home with all classes. A person walking in the love of God doesn't care what your color is, and doesn't care how much or how little money you have. It is just like in my church.

Whatever color you are, I love you - I love black, white, red, yellow, brown and if I missed any other color it was by oversight. I don't care what color you are, you are welcome in my church. Better yet, I love you and everyone that you bring with you. So bring your family and friends.

The book of James says that we should not give rich people special privileges that you won't give other people. Now I do not look at the giving records of my church members. I don't even want to be tempted to treat somebody different because of how much money they give.

A lot of celebrities that come to this church and don't like it, because they expect me to pamper them. The only way I would make special provisions for a celebrity visitor is if it is obvious that this person would be mobbed. I want to make a place for the person to be able to have church. It will not be because this person is so special. It will be a courteous move to protect them so that they can receive the Word of God.

So be courteous in your every day life, at home, on the job, and in public places. Courtesy is love in action. It is love toward all people of every race, creed or national origin. And when you act this way, you are acting just like Jesus.

Scripture References: James 2:1-5

Keith Butler Ministries
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