Praiseworthy Conduct
—3rd element of spiritual wellbeing
In this study, we consider the third element of spiritual wellbeing, namely praiseworthy conduct.
1 Our Conduct Must Fit Our Purpose
Our conduct must fit our faith in Christ's sacrifice for our sins, and our conduct must fit our purpose which, as we have seen, is to bring praise and glory to God. Therefore when we say, "Our conduct must be praise-worthy", we mean it in the special sense that the praise and glory redounds to God rather than lighting upon ourselves.
Philippians 1:27. Paul says, "Only let your conduct be worthy of the gospel of Christ" (Philippians 1:27). It is well recognised from experience that a simple life of Christlike conduct and attitude makes a stronger "sermon" than any oration.
2 Being a Pattern for Others
Philippians 3:17. The lives of Christians should be patterns and examples to others, yet without affectation, legalism, or self-righteousness. Paul, without any boast, recognised such a pattern in his own life. He said, "Join in following my example, and note those who so walk, as you have us for a pattern" (Philippians 3:17).
Philippians 4:9. Paul lived what he taught. Thus he was able to say, "The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do" (Philippians 4:9). Note that they not only "heard" but also "saw" the gospel in Paul. Many others "so walk" as exemplars of the gospel. Let us follow their example and so become patterns ourselves for others to follow.
There is no greater joy than to know that by your example you have caused or aided another to follow Jesus.
3 Living Blamelessly
Philippians 2:14. This is Paul's exhortation: "Become blameless and harmless, children of God in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world" (Philippians 2:14). The simple song, "This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine" is really quite profound.
When we try to affect a form of conduct in which we do not have our hearts, we become nothing better than hypocrites. Praiseworthy conduct comes from a heart set upon such. Thus Paul says,
Philippians 4:8. "Whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue, and if there is anything praiseworthy, meditate on these things" (Philippians 4:8).