Pardon me...What Is The Most Important Rule of Etiquette?

Mom taught my older sister and me how to set the table: Fork on the right atop the napkin, spoon and knife to the left with the knife closest to the plate (I think). All that I remember about the drinking glass: Keep it away from the table’s edge! We were not really that formal, but as kids we were taught good table manners so that I was able to feel confident the few times I enjoyed ‘finer’ dining. (Thank you, mom ; )

Etiquette. Even the word seems to have its nose stuck up in the air. Etiquette, in simpler terms, means, good manners. “Mind your manners,” mom reminded us if we were a guest at a friend’s house.

Yes, manners included rules for setting the dinner table, how to use your napkin, handle your utensils, and even how to discretely muffle an upcoming belch. Yet perhaps more important was the proper way to treat people.

Minding one’s manners included, “Please” and “Thank you.” “Excuse me,” for a variety of situations, avoiding interrupting someone while speaking, and suppressing laughter when inappropriate (something I failed at miserably).

It is often comical to hear a small child parrot what she has learned. After a *burp* slips out, dad gently prods, “What do you say?” With a joyful smile the little one bounces in her highchair with a confident, “Thank you!”

The instruction is not lost. Sooner or later the toddler learns. Yet, the goal is not to parrot instruction but to develop a thankful heart.

Of all the rules of etiquette and all the manners taught, I have learned that God has a special interest in thankfulness.

Are you a thankful person?
Did you know that God expects thankfulness?

In the Law of Moses there was a specific sacrifice called the peace offering. Its purpose was to offer thanks to God with the expected outcome of peace between the worshiper and God. (Leviticus 7) For the Christian a peace offering is made through prayer:

Through Him [Jesus] then, let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that give thanks to His name.
—Hebrews 13:15 (NASB95)

It is sobering to learn that God’s hot anger is set against those who are unrighteous, who do not give Him thanks. Those who are ungrateful, have foolishly ignored God. (See Romans 1:21.)

Even when in a time of need, we are encouraged to give thanks to God.

Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 
—Philippians 4:6

Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father.
—Colossians 3:17

There must be no filthiness and silly talk, or coarse jesting, which are not fitting, but rather giving of thanks. 
—Ephesians 5:4

Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it with an attitude of thanksgiving. 
—Colossians 4:2

The emphasis you place on etiquette is up to you. Just remember, Christians have been assured of eternal life through Christ Jesus. So...

Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift!
—2 Corinthians 9:15

Mark Stinnett