Albert Barnes Commentary 1 Thessalonians 4:12

"that ye may walk becomingly toward them that are without, and may have need of nothing." — 1 Thessalonians 4:12 (ASV)

That you may walk honestly toward them that are without (meaning, those outside the church). .

The word rendered honestly means becomingly, decorously, in a proper manner (Romans 13:13; 1 Corinthians 14:40). It does not refer here to mere honesty in the transaction of business, but to their general treatment of those who were not professing Christians.

They were to conduct themselves towards them in all respects in a becoming manner: to be honest with them, to be faithful to their engagements, to be kind and courteous in their interactions, to show respect where it was due, and to endeavor, in every way, to do them good. There are few precepts of religion more important than those which enjoin on Christians the duty of proper treatment towards those who are not connected with the church.

And that you may have lack of nothing. In the margin: no man. The Greek will bear either construction, but the translation in the text is probably the correct one. This phrase is to be understood not merely in connection with what immediately precedes it—as if walking honestly towards outsiders would preserve them from want—but as meaning that their industrious and quiet habits, their patient attention to their own business, and upright dealing with everyone would achieve this.

In this way, they would have a competence and would not be beholden to others. From this, learn that it is the duty of a Christian to live so as not to be dependent on others, unless he is made so by events of divine Providence which he cannot foresee or control.

No one should be dependent on others as the result of idle habits, extravagance and improvidence, neglect of his own business, or meddling in the affairs of others.

If by age, losses, infirmities, or sickness, he is made dependent, he cannot be blamed, and he should not complain about his lot. One of the ways in which a Christian may always do good in society and honor his religion is by quiet and patient industry, and by showing that religion prompts those habits of economy on which the happiness of society so much depends.