Are You Making the Grade?

Report cards…little pieces of paper that brought trepidation or excitement based on what type of student was receiving one! When we were in elementary school in the 1970’s, grades for the younger students were given as VG (very good), S (satisfactory), or N (needs improvement).

Along with reading, mathematics, and spelling, conduct was a part of the grading system. One point of grading under this category was gets along well with others. Getting a “needs improvement” mark spelled trouble with most parents because it meant that you were being disrespectful, non-inclusive, or just plain difficult to get along with. In our school system, it was important for students to learn how to behave towards one another, as this skill would follow them through the rest of their lives and affect all of their relationships.

How we conduct ourselves is important to God as well,  especially when we are his followers and represent Him. He knows that how we treat others will show them our representation of the gospel:

Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then, whether I come and see you or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in the one Spirit, striving together as one for the faith of the gospel.  Philippians 1:27

We all miss the mark at times. No one gets a perfect score in conduct! It helps to know that we have the Holy Spirit’s help when it comes to growing in maturity in our behavior.  Most of us can improve in our patience, respectfulness, and kindness towards others.  A self-evaluation is healthy from time to time; are you making the grade?