Remember this expression from your formative years? I was curious about its origin and discovered something interesting. Though it typically has been associated with minding your manners, it was also utilized in pubs during the 17th century to refer to pints and quarts as pub owners tried to keep track of how much a patron had consumed. On the other hand, there are those who simply see it as a reference to your “pleases ” and “thank yous”.
It occurred to me that perhaps there is more to it than that. The Q might refer to
QUITE:
Maybe you’re not QUITE where you want to be. But, He’s working.
Maybe you haven’t QUITE gotten an answer to a prayer yet. But, He’s working.
Maybe you aren’t QUITE the person yet that you want to be. But, He’s working.
Maybe a family relationship isn’t QUITE what it could be and that’s hurtful. But, He’s working.
Maybe (fill in the blank). But, He’s working.
So, be QUIET and recognize the P’s:
We have
His Provision: “God richly provides us with all things.” (1 Tim. 6:17)
His Protection: “You are my hiding place; You protect me from trouble” (Psalm 32:7)
His Presence: “The Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9)
His Peace: “Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you.” (John 14:27)
If things aren’t QUITE what we’d like, we can know He knows best and He isn’t done yet. No matter how things may appear, He still PROVIDES all we need each day. So, maybe – just maybe – minding our p’s and q’s means trusting Him in all things.
“My Father is always working…” (John 5:17)
Thank you! Such a needed reminder. Love you Aunt Teri. Anne
Thank you Teri. The Holy Spirit always gives you good words.
Nancy B
A beautiful take on minding your P and Qs. Thanks Teri
Thank you. A great take on an old addage!
Great perspective! Thanks!