Restraint

James 3:13-18
Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show by good conduct that his works are done in the meekness of wisdom. But if you have bitter envy and self-seeking in your hearts, do not boast and lie against the truth. This wisdom does not descend from above, but is earthly, sensual, demonic. For where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there. But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy.

Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.

Restraint refers to the appropriate response to the outward pressure of life. Living out of one's means is a direct hit to the soul. Undisciplined passion and envy are breeding grounds for the disease of 'Status'. Whimsical commitment and financial debt are forms of spiritual bondage. This "on loan" premature attainment of luxury results from misappropriated spiritual, emotional and mental energy. When we are concerned with appearance and obsessed with bigger, prettier, and better, we are risking our stability, integrity, and peace of mind-- not to mention the obvious sin of idolatry. Simply, worldly excesses are sin and they are contagious. Instead, frugality and restraint, as a settled lifestyle, liberates us from distractions of pomp and allows us the freedom of simplicity.

Restraint also refers to our 'insides'. We often take license in behavior, including inconsiderate jokes, emotional outbursts, flippant comments, and unwelcomed advances. These are all instances of occasions wherein God is not served. Exercising moral and ethical character is the proper approach to handling the bumps of life. We are obligated to bring joy, camaraderie and a spirit of giving to those around us. It is imperative that, when offended, we seek not to avenge ourselves, but to bring understanding to the situation. We practice patience, tolerance, grace, kindness, and love.

It is not possible to know what the master would do in all circumstances, but we must always ask ourselves, .What would a good friend do?. There is a need in this world for people who will do what they say they will do, be of assistance whenever needed, and be OK with 'today' in whatever circumstance presented.