Being Considerate in Our Daily Actions

Last week, Felicity and I walked around the base of Mount Maunganui, though the timing wasn’t ideal with a large cruise ship just having docked, and thousands of passengers flooding out. Still, it was lovely to see so many people enjoying the beauty of the area, and the local businesses benefiting from the influx of tourists. What stood out during our walk was how people used the narrow walkway. Some walked in single file to make room, while others took up the entire path, unaware of those coming the other way. It made me wonder: why don’t people follow basic courtesy or road rules to make things easier for everyone? Just as we were talking about this, we came across a couple who did just that—they moved into single file to let us pass. Felicity thanked them for their thoughtfulness, and they appreciated it.

This experience prompted a deeper reflection on how being considerate in our daily actions—whether on a walkway or in life—means stepping outside of our own desires to consider the needs of others. 

For example, in life, we can easily get caught up in what’s easiest or most comfortable. But when we listen to the Spirit, we might feel prompted to slow down, make space for others, or show patience in difficult moments. The Spirit guides us to reflect Christ’s love and truth in ways that aren’t always obvious or self-serving.

When we follow the Holy Spirit, it’s not just about doing the right thing for the sake of rules. It’s about cultivating a deeper awareness of God’s presence and making space for the Spirit to guide us. Like that couple on the walkway, when we are thoughtful and sensitive to the needs of others, we reflect Christ’s nature, and the Spirit shines through us.

As Jesus teaches, when we follow the Spirit, we are called to be lights to the world—demonstrating good deeds that glorify God (Matthew 5:13-16). The key is to let our actions reflect God’s love, truth, and peace.

“You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:13-16).

Have a great week,  and may you ‘Give way’  a little in your activities— to reflect Christ’s love and bring blessings to those around you.