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June 21
When the governor motioned for Paul to speak, he began his response: “Knowing that you have been a judge over this nation for many years, I gladly make my defense. — Acts 24:10 BSB
Courtesy is always a sign of noble character. We see this in Paul as he stands before Felix.
He compliments the governor—not in a flattering way, but with appropriate words.
We should all learn the art of pleasing others. Some people are blunt, almost to the point of rudeness. Manners matter more in life than many realize.
A lot of the accusations people make against others come from gossip or mere assumptions. That’s how the charge against Paul started. Someone saw him in the temple, and because Paul had previously been seen with a Gentile, Trophimus, on the street, people assumed Paul brought him into the temple.
We must be extremely careful not to say anything about someone that isn’t absolutely true. Assumptions aren’t a solid basis for making accusations.
The safest way to live is so carefully, truthfully, and purely that nothing anyone says against us can harm us.