Godly Character Is Developed, Not Obtained

"Character is what you are in the dark."   - D.L. Moody.

A person can do a lot to cover-up, or obscure their outward appearance. Make-up, clothes, a new hairstyle, diet, even a total makeover can do wonders to zhush-up our looks. Believe me, I can think of a few things that could use a little primping myself, but that's another story for another day!

Although we can do some clever re-working on the outside, it's not so easy to change what we are on the inside. One of the most important personal attributes, or traits is character. According to Wikipedia: the concept of character can imply a variety of attributes including the existence or lack of virtues such as empathy, courage, fortitude, honesty, and loyalty, or of good behaviors or habits.

Certainly, these traits are applicable to all people, for without good, moral character we are like a ship without a rudder. And, as for the Christian, each one of the attributes listed above are both conducive to, and essential for, a believer who truly abides by God's Word.

Think of character as the traits that define, or describe you and I. It's what a person is, when all of the "pretty" is scrubbed away, not what we're supposed to be. You can see how this could make a lot of us squirm around in our seats. We all like to think that our character is solid and unshakeable. But, when the veil is pulled aside, and our true character is exposed, will we be happy with what we see?

Here's the thing about character. It's not something that comes by easily. We don't wake up one glorious morning and find that we have one. We're not born with it, we can't buy it, we can't find it. It has to be developed. A Godly character isn't necessarily formed by the small bumps and nudges we experience everyday. It is forged by the life's tough struggles. It is formed by the harsh trials of life.

In this temporal world, we will get kicked around alot. That's right! And, to make it even more interesting, we will face temptation over, and over again. Why all of the rough treatment? Why does God make us go through all of theses storms? Why does He let us pass through the deep, woeful valleys?

Our Heavenly Father never does anything to hurt us. Nor, does He do anything without a plan for our own good. In a way, if you're going to be a real, bonafide follower; you have to partake in God's boot camp. It's going to tough and rough. You're going to get kicked in the pants now and then. There will be days when you just don't want to go on. But you have to keep pressing on. You must!

Only by engaging life's trials head-on will we be who God wants us to be. Jesus warned his disciples about some of the troubles they would encounter because of their association. He didn't sugarcoat the fact that there would be some difficult and unpleasant times ahead (Matthew 5:11). Paul told the Phippians pretty much the same thing (Philippians 1:29).

During his earthly ministry Jesus never said that it would be easy to follow him. Being a disciple of Christ was not then, and is not now, for the faint of heart. What we tend to sometimes forget is that we are not being "forged in the fire" for this life, that's way too easy. Our character is being developed for so much more.

Along with the "character" traits listed above, we can add a few more Godly characteristics, which He desires in us. First, there's compassion. After all, what are we if we don't care about, and for others. Without love, we are nothing (1 Corinthians 13:3). Next up, consistency. God needs people who aren't afraid to be different from prevailing societal values surrounding them; and to stand up for godly standards (Proverbs 10:9).

Cooperation is another important trait. Christ is looking for cooperation, not competition in His followers. In life's battles we can better defend, protect, and comfort each other by working together as a team. Together we are as strong "armor" (Ephesians 6:11-12). Let's add commitment to this list as well because God is looking for people who put commitment before comfort. Many are strong coming out of the gate, but fizzle out before the end (Luke 9:62).

Rounding out our list today is courage. God desires those who aren't afraid to step up for His values no matter what it takes. In today's world, it seems that individual security, the "what's in it for me" train of thought rules the day. This simply won't cut it for Him. God needs those who are willing to stand up for His kingdom (Matthew 6:31-33).

In closing, Godly characteristics are developed through life's trials. It will be rigorous and grueling at times. You will shed many tears and experience deep, heart-felt pain. Some will have to endure physical pain, and even face death.  But by these ordeals and our faith, we become holy, and acceptable to God,

Scripture: Romans 12:2; Romans 5:1-5; 1 Chronicles 29:7; 2 Peter 1:5-6; Titus 2:7-8

Prayer: Dear God, keep my heart focused on You, and guide me along the right paths of life. Amen

May your lives be blessed!

Mindy