Character Counts

Character shows who you are – not the clothes you wear, where you grew up not the color of your skin, but how you respond and react to the many different situations that you experience. Your words, actions, and attitudes show the true “you”.

Remember, you are created in God’s image and after His likeness.

Genesis 1:26a “And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness:”

The moment you accept Jesus Christ as your savior. You are made NEW!

2 Corinthians 5:17 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

God wants you to begin growing spiritually, and develop consistent, enduring Godly character. How do you know what is Godly character? By having a “right” understanding of God’s character. How do you get a “right” understanding?

Study the Bible – Psalm 119:105 “Thy word (Bible) is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.”
Pray – James 1:5 “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.”
Seek Godly Council (Pastor, Sunday School Teacher, Godly Mentor) – Proverbs 19:20“Hear counsel, and receive instruction, that thou mayest be wise in thy latter end.
Attend a Bible Believing Church – Hebrews 10:25 “Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.”

It is going to take time and some effort to grow.

Below are 49-character traits we will explore together. “A right” understanding them will help you begin to reflect God’s character, so He is seen, enjoyed, and honored through you.

May God be glorified as you allow Him to change you into the image of His Son, Jesus Christ!

Contentment

What are you depending on for your joy and contentment?

Everything we see online or TV is trying to convince us that we need that newest and greatest gadget or thing. Those advertisements are trying to steal your focus and joy.

Contentment is literally realizing that God has provided everything we need for our happiness. No matter how much or how little someone has, they can have a lasting contentment when God is the source of their lives, joy, peace, identity and purpose. It comes from the security of knowing that their greatest need (forgiveness/salvation) has already been provided by Jesus.

The opposite of contentment is covetousness. Now no person is ever going to openly admit that they covet anything or anyone, but… Do you ever desire something that you don’t have? Do you ever get your mind set on something that you believe is necessary for your happiness? Or… Do you sometimes feel like God can’t bring you the satisfaction you seek alone? I know that at times I answer yes to any one of these questions. Maybe not all of them at once, but at least one once in a while.

The Bible says that if we desire an object more than God, then that replacement object has become an idol. A simple desire can quickly escalate into a terrible situation that ends up hurting others, if not brought under control.

Contentment is not natural.

It has to be learned and practiced. We need to repeatedly turn our focus to the Lord whenever we feel discontent.

Philippians 4:11-12 Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content. I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.

Ask God if that thing you are desiring is something you actually need and then trust Him to take care of it. Sometimes God hasn’t given you something you desire because he wants you to wait or he may not think you need it to fulfill his purpose at all.

2 Peter 1:3 According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue:

1 Timothy 6:6-8 But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.

We were born into this world with nothing, and we can’t take anything with us when we die. God wants to provide for us. He doesn’t desire for us to worry about anything in this life. That verse in 1 Timothy clearly says that all we need is God, food, and clothes; but hasn’t he given us so much more.

Matthew 6:19-21 Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.

All that we think we need right now will all one day be gone. That is why finding contentment in Christ is so important, because it lasts for eternity.

What are you resting you content in today?
Compassion

This past year has been a struggle; I have had three family members pass away and well… I feel like I just need some love and comfort from others. Everyone feels this way at one time or another, but God doesn’t ever say that we are to seek for our own comfort from others, but rather go to God.

Once we have experienced his love and compassion in our lives, then we are to share that with others. We always know when we need something or someone’s help, but can we see the needs of those around us?

Having compassion is investing whatever is necessary to heal the hurt of others. But not everyone looks for the needs of others, instead they are indifferent to their needs. That means they are unconcerned and not stirred by their suffering. That’s pretty sad if you think about it.

Luckily, we have a wonderful example of someone who loved and showed compassion for everyone he came in contact with, even those that thought only ill of him. Jesus came to earth with the sole purpose to save those that were lost. All he asks us to do, is follow his example and show compassion as he did.

It doesn’t matter what someone looks like, where they come from, or even if they treat you right, Jesus wants us to love all equally.

Colossians 3:10-13 And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him: Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free: but Christ is all, and in all. Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.

So, what does that mean? God comforted us in our times of need, therefore to help others we need to tell them what Jesus did for you so that they too can be comforted by God. They need to know that they have someone they can go to. Christ in our lives, can be the picture that guides them to seek God’s help as well.

Don’t be afraid of what they may think or your qualifications. Stop making excuse to not go the extra mile in helping someone in need. They also need God’s compassion and a friend to be there for them.

Psalm 9:9 The Lord also will be a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble.

Psalm 28:7 The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise him.

What is stopping you today from showing compassion to those in need?
Cautiousness

Life is full of moments that cautiousness becomes more than just a thought. Or at least it should.

Often we associate cautiousness with an interest to our own safety. It is our own senses that help us to realize potential danger. But God has given us more than just physical senses. He has also given us spiritual and emotional senses. All three are not only provided for our own well-being, but also for the care for others.

Cautiousness is taking the time to discern the attitudes and actions of those around and then choosing the best time to speak.

Proverbs 15:23 A man hath joy by the answer of his mouth: and a word spoken in due season, how good is it!

Many potential problems and dangers can often be avoided by carefully and thoughtfully speaking and acting at the correct time. This means that at times instead of letting our emotions take over, we need to patiently wait. Wait until your emotions calm down, wait for to situation to de-escalate, or maybe simply wait for God’s guidance in that area.

You don’t want to be rash or let your emotions take control, because that is when the results often end with terrible ramifications, results, or consequences.

James 1:19 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:

When
we react instead of wait, we usually aren’t the only one’s that get hurt. God wants to help us to know when it is the right time to act or speak. He gives us WISDOM to process the information around us and to make the correct and sometimes courageous decision.

So how do we develop cautiousness?

1. Rest in the Lord. Psalm 37:7
2. Wait patiently for Him. Psalm 37:7
3. Fret not about others success. Psalm 37:7
4. Keep His way. Psalm 37:34
5. Be aware of what you say to others. (Once someone is offended, it is harder to be won back.) Hebrews 3:13
6. Keep your heart focused on God and his truth. Matthew 13:22-23
7. Encourage and uplift each other daily. Matthew 13:23
8. Grow in confidence of your faith. Matthew 13:23
9. Read God’s Word. Matthew 13:23
10. Watch for temptation. Mark 14:38
11. Pray for God’s guidance. Mark 14:38
12. Look and learn from Biblical examples. 1 Corinthians 10:11
13. Remember God’s promises. 1 Corinthians 10:13
14. Grow in Grace and the knowledge of God. 2 Peter 3:18
15. Be aware of false teachers. Luke 21:8
16. Be cautious of others spoiling you unto deceit. Colossians 2:8
17. Search the Scriptures. Acts 17:11
18. Serve and love your neighbor. Galatians 5:13-14
19. Walk in the Spirit. Galatians 5:16
20. Don’t let the flesh control you. Galatians 5:16

I know that this seems like a long list. But practicing these things will help us think about the consequences that may come if we are not prepared. It shows us that we can wait until we are in the correct spirit, under control, emotions in check, and God is by our side. Cautiousness is not a weakness, it is a strength that shows wisdom and care for others, not just for yourself. Let’s start practicing it today.
Boldness

Does doing the right thing cause you to fear what others may say or think?

2 Timothy 1:7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.

Satan loves to intimidate us, with the opinions of others, to keep us silent from speaking the truth, but God enables us to proclaim His truth.

Hebrews 13:6 So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.

Being bold means having confidence that what you have to say or do is true, right, and just in the sight of God. A bold person has to be willing to obey God when he calls them to stand for Him, even when it may not be well accepted.

Now, I don’t know about you, but I don’t always find that to be the easiest thing to do. I wish I could say that I was always willing to stand up for God, but I know at times that I allow Satan’s intimidation keep me from saying what I feel the Holy Spirit guiding me to say.

2 Timothy 1:8 Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner: but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God;

Boldness requires discernment to know when to stand, courage to face the unknown, wisdom to foresee the outcome, and love to communicate graciously. The only way we can do that is first yielding to the Lord.

He never asked us to be bold on our own. He is our helper. When we spend time in His word and prayer he shows us his truth. Then with that truth, the Holy Spirit teaches us to know how and when to take a stand in boldness for Him.

The thing we need to watch out for is fearfulness. It is the exact opposite of boldness. Instead of worrying about what others may think when we speak up, we need to consider what will happen to those very same people if we don’t. Our words are powerful, they can bring confidence or fear to others. We shouldn’t be ashamed of the gospel, but rather live by righteousness and boldly proclaim it.

Acts 4:29 And now, Lord, behold their threatenings: and grant unto thy servants, that with all boldness they may speak thy word,

Stop making excuses to not be bold for God. When we hide the truth, it not only hurts us, but those around us as well. God’s truth sets all free that will hear it. We don’t have to be under the power of fear any longer, but protected by the love of God.
Availability

“I’m busy!” or “Oh, not NOW!” or “Can’t I just have a little ‘ME’ time?” – how often do you respond this way?

I know that I have done it…and if you are truthful, so have you.

Philippians 2:21 For all seek their own, not the things which are Jesus Christ’s.

We all at times, are self-centered, when we are interrupted during the day, which is the opposite of AVAILIBILITY.

God asks Christians to become servants and follow Christ’s example.

Philippians 2:7 But made himself (Christ) of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:

This is not an easy task for many of us, including myself. How do I become more available for God’s “interruptions”?

For many of us, it will require two things:

First, recognize that the time we have is not ours, God has given it to us and we need to be good stewards of it. Second, change how we use our time. Being faithful to follow a schedule, setting priorities, and making plans ahead of time – develop good habits so these interruptions will not be a burden but a blessing.

AVAILABILTY is be willing to set aside your activities temporarily, to be available at a moment’s notice to help someone else in need. That includes family, friends, and even strangers, anyone who needs your help.

***Remember your helping another may be the only glimpse of Christ that person will ever encounter.
Attentiveness
Have you ever been caught “zoning out” and heard “Hello…are you listening?”

Whether you were sitting in class listening to the teacher’s lecture or at home when your Mom asks you to take out the garbage or when you’re in a work meeting when a boss asks a question. (Yep, even adults do it!) Many of us go through our days not paying attention.

Why do we do that?

Are we distracted? Do we not care about what others say? In one word we are being SELFISH!

How is that being selfish? Not giving worth to the other person’s words and/or emotions.

Being Attentive is not a natural thing we ALL need to work at it.

* * * REMEMBER EVERY person is valuable to God. * * *

God shows us our worth to Him in many ways. He redeemed us with the blood of His own Son, He listens to our prayers, and He promises to provide our needs. In the same way, we as Christians, should show others that they are valuable by being attentive. No matter who the person is, we should listen. Changing our focus from ourselves to others will provide opportunities to show God’s love to others. Also, as a bonus, being attentive will help us avoid misunderstandings and prevent mistakes.

Proverbs 1:5 A wise man will hear, and will increase in learning; and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels.

Hebrews 2:1 Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip.
Tips on how to be ATTENTTIVE:
1. Keep eye contact
2. Nod your head as you understand the instructions
3. Remove distractions (turn off the TV, put down your phone, removed your headphones/earbuds)
4. Ask God to help you listen better (remember God gave you 2 ears 😉)
Alertness

Alertness is being aware of what is taking place around me so that I can have the right response to it.

It involves all our 5 senses – sight, hearing, taste, smell, and touch.

Being ALERT to what is going on around you is the one step you can take to being transformed into what God wants you to be. It does not mean eavesdropping, gossiping, or spying on people. Rather use your senses to serve and protect others. But many people have the attitude “If it doesn’t involve me why should I worry about it, that is someone else’s problem.” Yes, you can think and act that way, but as Christians, we are called to be different.

And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. Romans 12:2

Being ALERT is the one step you can take to being transformed into what God wants you to be.

As you notice things do you react? And do you respond CORRECTLY?

** Remember **

But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows. Luke 12:7

God cares and loves you; He even knows the number of hairs on your head. You are valuable to Him! If God loves us so much as to count the hairs on our head, is it unreasonable to ask that we care for others as well?

1 Peter 5:8 – Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:

The devil wants us to be absorbed with our own things, be distracted from other’s needs, dismiss the warnings of danger, and be unresponsive to put it simply to be selfish. It is not always easy or convenient to go the extra step to take care of a problem, but I can personally say that the blessing you will receive will outweigh the time or energy used.

How can you start?

You see lights left on in an empty room. – To help save electricity costs you should turn them off.

You taste something and it has a strange texture or smells funny. – Tell someone so that someone doesn’t get sick.

Someone is sitting in a corner crying. – Go over and offer a tissue and ask if they are okay.

There is a dripping faucet in the bathroom. – Try to turn it off and tell someone to prevent future water damage.

How to remain alert?

Matthew 26:41 – Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.

When we trust the Lord, He will give us the grace and the strength to do what is needed when we see it.

True Hope 4 You