August 2026: Walk Gracefully toward Outsiders

With the coming of August, we have one final article based on Dr. Ryan Tinetti’s The Quiet Ambition. We have looked at the idea of ambition that is quiet. We have spent the last few months looking at each of the tenants that Tinetti takes from 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12: “Live Quietly,” “Tend to Your Own Business,” “Work with Your Hands,” and now we conclude this series with “Walk Gracefully toward Outsiders.”

Tinetti begins by looking at these first two words. “Walk” generally means going on a stroll, but in this case – and often the case in scripture – the word “walk” is used to describe how a person conducts their life. To walk through life is not to run or sprint. It is not to charge in mindlessly. It is a walk. It is slow.

The second word is often translated in other ways. The most common words you find are “decently,” “properly,” and “honestly.” Tinetti argues that, since the root of the Greek adverb used here is “figure or form,” the word “gracefully” conveys the best meaning. He alludes to a ballerina dancing. It is movement that is measured and beautiful. It is “formed” precisely. While our Christian walks can look more like toddlers than ballerinas, graciousness in our walk is to what we aspire.

Thus, “walk gracefully.” It is a slow and intentional movement. It happens not in the big and bombastic parts of life, but as you go down the street. Ask yourself where your talents lie. How can you use them not to change the world, but simply to serve your neighbor? That, of course, especially means knowing your literal neighbors. Being rooted in a community is an important part of walking gracefully towards those who do not know the Lord. That means taking intentional time to invest and socialize in your community.

As far as conduct with those who are not Christians (whom Paul is referring to as “outsiders”), we always seek to treat others better than we are treated. One example comes from Dr. Gibbs, not Dr. Tinetti, but I love it. Many people will view Orthodox Christians as ignorant and mean (sometimes for good reason). In seminary, Dr. Gibbs said this means we need to be kind and know everything.

Obviously, we cannot know everything. We can take time in discussions to listen and spend time learning about the world. As we saw in a previous section, speaking is optional. You can learn a lot by listening (a lesson I know that I need to keep learning). Also, take time to be kind to others. Take extra time to be kind to others who treat you poorly. Pray for them and for the way you approach them – more so for those who are outside of the body of Christ. We represent Christ as we bear his name. Remember that, especially when it is hardest. “Foil the devil by showing kindness,” as Tinetti writes.

I pray this series has at the very least given you some advice about living as a Christian in a way that brings God’s kingdom to the here and now. My bigger hope, though, is that it has inspired you to pick up the book yourself. Feel free to ask me for my copy to borrow!

Blessings on your August! Stay cool!