Over our 25 years, HEARTLIGHT.org has passed along the creative blessings of many famous authors who graciously shared their writing with our readers. This year as we celebrate "Shining the Light" for a quarter-century, we will highlight some of these special authors. Today, please enjoy one of Max Lucado's short but spot-on messages.

Paul said, "All of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ" (Galatians 3:27).

We wear Jesus! And those who don't believe in Jesus note what we do. They make decisions about Christ by watching us. When we are kind, they assume Christ is kind. When we're gracious, they assume Christ is gracious.

But if we are brash, what will people think of our King? Our Master?

No wonder Paul also says:

Be wise in the way you act with people who are not believers, making the most of every opportunity. When you talk, you should always be kind and pleasant so you will be able to answer everyone in the way you should (Colossians 4:5-6).

And even Peter, the once impestuous apostle, reminded us to be mindful of how we share our hope because of our influence on others:

But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, 16 keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander (1 Peter 3:15-16).

Common courtesy honors God and his children. "Do your best," the Scriptures say, "to live in peace with everyone" (Romans 12:18 NCV).

Just do your best!

You can't control the attitude of others, but you can manage yours!

You can't control the attitude of others, but you can manage yours!

Excerpt from A Love Worth Giving.

Written by Max Lucado.

Used by permission. All rights reserved.