MEMORY VERSE: “ Let all things be done decently and in order.” 1 Corinthians 14:40.
BIBLE PASSAGE: Titus 3:1-2.
INTRODUCTION
Etiquette. according to Oxford dictionary, is defined as code (specific rules) of polite behaviour within a culture, society or professional group. Etiquette makes one behave in a responsible way distinct from animals. It is applicable to various fields of life: social, professional business, spiritual, etc. When an individual display respect for rules of behaviour, we say that person has good etiquette or manners. The Bible equally advises us as believers to apply decency and orderliness in whatever we do 1 Corinthians 14:40. Hence, it is necessary for believers to be guided in their dealings and interactions with others.
OUTLINES
- THE NEED FOR SOCIAL ETIQUETTES
- SOME SOCIAL ETIQUETTES
- THE NEED FOR SOCIAL ETIQUETTES
Social etiquettes are important to be followed, this stops people around us from being embarrassed by our behaviour Colossians 4:6. We should not behave irrationally or illogically in public especially as God’s childrenTitus 3:1-2. Without etiquette, members of society would show far too much impatience and disrespect for one another 1 Peter 3:8. Etiquette makes us cultured people who leave their marks wherever they go 1 Peter 2:9. It teaches us mannerism: the way to eat, talk, walk and most importantly behave in the society Proverbs 23:1-2; 1 Peter 2:13. It is essential for a lasting first impression Philippians 4:5a. The way you interact with your superiors, parents, fellow workers, friends, etc. speaks a lot about your personality and up-bringing Proverbs 18:24 Etiquette enables the individual to earn respect and appreciation in the society Luke 6:31. Etiquette helps to value relationships Proverbs 25:17.
2. SOME SOCIAL ETIQUETTES
- When invited to a social gathering, do not be in a hurry to take the front seat until your host brings you up Proverbs 25:6-7; Luke 14:7-11.
- Do not call someone more than twice continuously on phone. If they do not pick up your call, presume they have something important to attend to Matthew 7:1.
- Return money or anything that you have borrowed even before the other person remembers asking for it.It shows your integrity and character Psalm 37:21.
- Always be modest. Be careful not to order the expensive dish on the menu when someone is giving
you lunch/dinner. Do not use the opportunity to takeundue advantage of your host. Also avoid taking friends along except on request Proverbs 23:1-2. - If you take a taxi with a friend and he/she pays,try paying next time Hebrews 10:24.
- Never comment negatively on someone’s weight or physical features in the public Psalm 139:14.
- For ladies, avoid sitting carelessly. It is advisable to cross your legs at the ankle. For men, always be a gentleman’ Rudeness is never manly Titus 3:2.
- When someone shows you a photo on their phone, do not swipe left or right, you never know what next. 1 Corinthians 16:13 -14.
- If a colleague tells you they have a doctor’s appointment, do not ask what for, just say ‘hope you’re okay?’ Do not put them in uncomfortable position of having to say what they do not want to say.
- Do not be ‘a busy body’ in other people’s matter 1 Timothy 5:13; 1 Peter 4:15.
In addition, you should not rush for food or chairs in a large gathering. Do not jump queue in public places, drive against traffic or break traffic laws. Avoid littering the environment with rubbish. Do not use reckless slangs (‘s**t’,’f**k’, etc.). Flagrant disregard for decorum, lack of table manners and improper dressing should be avoided.
CONCLUSION
We must consciously guard our utterances and conducts as good representatives of Christ everywhere we go 2 Corinthians 5:20.#
FURTHER READING
Sun: Psalm 101:2.
Mon: 1 Timothy 3:15.
Tues: 1 Peter 4:15.
Wed: Proverbs 23:1-2.
Thurs: Psalm 37:21.
Fri: Proverbs 25:6-7.
Sat: 1 Corinthians 16:13.