Note 15 at Phil.4:5: The Greek word for "moderation," EPIEIKES, has been translated "gentle" three times, "patient" one time and "moderation" one time in the Authorized Version. The NIV translated EPIEIKES as "gentleness." The NAS says, "Let your forbearing spirit be known to all men". The Amplified says, "Let all men know and perceive and recognize your unselfishness-your considerateness, your forbearing spirit."

This word "originally indicated a thoughtful, considerate and decent outlook. Rather than hotly demanding his or her rights, whatever the cost to others, a person with this trait seeks peace in a calm way....." This word is "opposite of an angry harshness that grows out of personal pride and a dominating selfishness" (Expository Dictionary of Bible Words, pp. 303-304).

Note 16 at Phil. 4:5: Notice that our moderation (see note 15 at this verse) is to be known unto all men. In other words, we are to let our light shine all the time (Mt. 5:14-16). Those who are only holy at church are Pharisees (see notes 7-8 at Mt. 23:13, p. 448). If we can't be godly towards our customers or bosses, then we are not fulfilling this command. Our light is not to be put under a bushel but on a candlestick where it can give light to all that are in the house (Mt. 5:15).

Note 17 at Phil. 4:5: Paul gives a reason for letting this godly trait of "moderation" (see note 15 at this verse) be displayed before men. It is because "the Lord is at hand." Jesus is coming soon and that means everyone will be facing his Maker soon. All men need to be ready and we are God's witnesses to get them ready. Therefore, we need to be about our Father's business of leading men to the Light. The way we do this is to let our light shine or let our "moderation be known unto all men."

Note 18 at Phil. 4:5: Paul expressed his belief on other occasions that the second coming of the Lord was emminent. In 1 Corinthians 7:29-31, Paul told husbands the time was so short that they needed to act like they weren't married. James made similar statements (Jas. 5:8-9) and so did the apostle Peter (1 Pet. 4:7). If this was their perspective nearly 2000 years ago, how much more should we expect the coming of the Lord to be near. One thing is for sure-whether Christ comes in our lifetime or not, this is our last generation to work for the Lord. We need to take it seriously. This is not a rehearsal.