*CHARACTER*
*
DEFINITION *
The aggregate of properties and qualities that distinguishes one person or
thing from another; a moral or ethical quality.
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*SCRIPTURE*
But we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces
perseverance and perseverance, character, and character, hope. Romans 5:3-4
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*KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE*
Other than knowing Jesus as one’s Savior, nothing is more important in life
than to have proven character that is honest and trust worthy. When a
person’s character is questioned it is very hard for that person to ever be
completely trusted.
As a believer we have even a greater responsibility to have an upright
character because what we do and what we say affects what others see in us
and how we represent our Lord. As believers we are subject to a higher
standard because of our faith.
When we think of character we think of Job. In the book of Job we read
about a man of upright character and great faith in God. He was also very
prosperous. Satan came before God and challenged that Job’s faith was
related to his prosperity. God allowed Satan to test Job. Satan took away
all of Job’s flocks, all of his possessions, all of his servants, and even
all of his children. When all of this did not cause Job to turn against
God, Satan afflicted him physically. Even then Job’s faith never wavered.
God commended Job for his character. In Job 1:8 God said to Satan, have you
considered My servant Job, that there is none like him on the earth, a
blameless and upright man, who fears God and shuns evil.
Our character is the sum total of our personal values and qualities.
Character is a large factor in determining the life we lead here on earth.
In Genesis 49 we read about Jacob gathering all of his twelve sons together
to give them his blessing before he died. He made a prediction on their
future based on the way they had lived and the character they portrayed. Of
the twelve, only Joseph was described as having a commendable character.
Joseph was the only son that Joseph predicted would have God’s blessing in
the future.
The Bible also tells us of great men and women of virtuous and Godly
character. We think of Abraham, Enoch and Noah. All of them were known to
walk with God. They knew that character was highly important in God’s sight.
Have you ever given thought about whether God is being glorified by your
character or would He be ashamed of your character? When you tell someone
that you are a Christian, do they see you as Christ-like? Is it time for a
character analysis in your life?
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*LEARNING*
Our memory verse for this week is found in Colossians 3:13.
Bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a
complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you must also do.
*
PRAYER*
Lord, enable me to have an upright character and to always strive to do
what is right. Help me to bring glory to Your name and represent You with
honor and obedience so that others will see You in me. Keep me strong when
Satan tempts me to do any evil that would harm my testimony and hinder my
relationship with You.