The Lord is Near

In Philippians 4:5, Paul says, "Let your reasonableness be known to everyone; the Lord is at hand." We are known by certain traits that characterize us. Paul says, let it be our reasonableness. Reasonableness is a broad term in the Greek, with many nuances. With respect to pressure situations, reasonableness is responding with patience, composure and steadfastness, realizing that our Sovereign God is in control of all things. With respect to other people, reasonableness is relating to others with humility, gentleness, forgiveness, forbearance and graciousness. It's not demanding our way or our rights but trusting in God to set things right. It is reasonable to follow Christ's example of humility. Any progress we make in living this way will come from realizing that the Lord is at hand, dwelling with us and in us. He is our strength and ever present help.