Life Performance!

When a conductor CONDUCTS a piece of music, on what does he (or she) focus? What would become of the masterpiece if the conductor decided to let the audience set the tempo or decide what part each section should play. Someone has noted, “A man who wants to lead the orchestra must turn his back on the crowd.” [original source unknown] The conductor focuses the attention on the composer’s score and CONDUCTS the orchestra accordingly. Though the conductor might turn and address the crowd from time to time, the direction does not come from it.

When we consider our own CONDUCT in life, is it in accordance with the desires of the crowd or do we remain focused on the manuscript of the Composer of all life? Our CONDUCT will generally be based on that which we focus on the most. The principles we hold dear and the values we hold highest are what will most often set the tempo for our life. And like the conductor, we should be willing to address the crowd with the truth of God’s manuscript for living, but not allow the crowd to direct the symphony of our life.

James exhorted…
“Who is wise and understanding among you? By his GOOD CONDUCT let him show his works in the meekness of wisdom.” ( James 3:13 ESV)

And Peter urged…
“(14) As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance, (15) but as he who called you is holy, you also BE HOLY IN ALL YOUR CONDUCT, (16) since it is written, ‘You shall be holy, for I am holy.’” ( 1 Peter 1:14-16 ESV)

In both of these passages, the word translated “CONDUCT” comes from the Greek “anastrophe”, which refers to the manner of life or living, CONDUCT, or behavior. The verb “anastrepho” literally means to turn back or return (“ana”, back and “strepho”, return). [source: W. E. Vine’s Expository Dictionary of N.T. Words] The focus of our CONDUCT always needs to be turned back to that which conforms to the holiness of God. Continually focusing our vision on the truth of His Word will be the key in keeping our life turned that direction as well. This may mean our back being toward the crowd. However, maintaining CONDUCT that reveals the wisdom of God will give the crowd something worth following.

Peter also exhorted those to whom he wrote…
“(11) Beloved, I urge you as sojourners and exiles to abstain from the passions of the flesh, which wage war against your soul. (12) KEEP YOUR CONDUCT among the Gentiles HONORABLE, so that when they speak against you as evildoers, THEY MAY SEE YOUR GOOD DEEDS AND GLORIFY GOD ON THE DAY OF VISITATION.” ( 1 Peter 2:11-12 ESV)

Have a great day LEADING AN EXEMPLARY LIFE TO THE GLORY OF GOD!
Carl

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