God is a God “of order”.

In many ways, we can observe creation and see that God made the universe in a way that’s understandable (laws of physics, etc.). Of course, there are many things we’ve yet to understand, but in what theologians call “General Revelation” we see and know certain things beyond mere cultural explanation. For example, a mom is naturally inclined to love her child, but strangers also instinctively know that she “ought” to love and nurture her child…why? Because it’s hard-wired in us.

In I Corinthians 14, Paul mentions “Godly order” regarding the way church gatherings should be conducted:

“For God is not the author of confusion but of peace, as in all the churches of the saints.”

“Let all things be done decently and in order” – I Cor. 14:33, 40 NKJV

Yes, the definition of proper decency may be up for some debate, but the underlying attitude toward personal conduct shouldn’t be. Pettiness, self-promotion, arrogance, manipulation, pride, etc. should be rejected, not excused and justified. And when those things pop-up, observers often sense that it “ought” not to be that way. Even non-believers can sense it and get confused about what it means to follow Christ.

Are your habits today within the body “decent” and “orderly”? If so, they reflect a heavenly principle, if not, perhaps a moment of prayerful reflection is “in order”.