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!
- Discretion
This topic brought back a lot of memories for me. I learned very early on that my words and actions can have a huge effect on others. So much to the point that it can influence them to actions or thoughts that they may or may not have originally had. That is why, discretion, in my life, became very important.
Matthew 12:36 But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.
When I was in college, I had a girl-friend that you can say was not in the best place in her life. For the longest time, I said nothing and I did nothing, which may sound terrible, but… in truth, it may have been the best thing.
Discretion is the ability to avoid words, actions, and attitudes which could result in undesired consequences.
Reading that definition, I am reminded of my mother’s words, “Don’t be a Thumper!” which if you have ever seen the movie Bambi you know that Thumper’s mother always said, “If you can’t say something nice, don’t say nothing at all.” Sometimes it is better to say nothing, then to say something you will regret.
A person of discretion is one that values silence, to allow himself to think BEFORE he speaks. He also stays silent afterward so that the hearer can consider his message. Discretion helps someone to be cautious and thoughtful, rather than reckless and impulsive.
Too many times, we let our emotions cause us to create situations that could have been avoided, and could have prevented people from being hurt or relationships broken.
Our choices can bring honor or disgrace to ourselves, but also to Christ’s name. To avoid the negativity of simplemindedness, or the lack of discretion, we must study God’s word (I recommend starting in Proverbs). Through our studying and spiritual growth, we will gain wisdom in knowing how to discern what words, actions, and attitudes we should avoid. The Holy Spirit will also guide us in each situation – helping us consider possible results, so that we can make an appropriate decision on our actions.
Going back to that girlfriend in college. After several years of staying silent, watching “more mature” Christians try to help her with no avail, I felt the Holy Spirit telling me it was time to finally speak up.
I didn’t know what to say or do, that could actually make a difference. I didn’t want to say anything that could cause more harm than help. But then one evening, I felt that little push to confront her on her actions that were going against God. I prayed so hard for the Holy Spirit’s guidance. And he gave it. the moment I walked out of that room after talking to her, my mind could not remember what I had said. It was like the Holy Spirit talked through me, and I wasn’t even there, which may sound scary, but to me… It was a relief. I knew that what I said wasn’t my words, but God’s through me.
1 Corinthians 2:10,13-14 But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. Which things also we speak, not in the words which man’s wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual. But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.
We need to make sure that our words and actions are in line with God’s wisdom, not our own. I can with confidence say that I was able to use discretion in this particular situation. But sad to say, this friend did not listen. She made a choice, and you need to as well.
What will you choose? - Discernment
When I think of discernment, I envision a court room. There are those that are accusing, are defending, the accused and then the one who is making the final ruling. Each one is coming at the case from different perspectives. One is using all his means to make sure the defendant is released with as little to no punishment for something he may or may not have done. While the other attorney is desperately trying to make sure that the defendant is brought to justice for the actions.
But then you have the judge, who has a large responsibility to look through the opinions to the facts of the whole case before making a ruling. He or she is responsible to make the correct call, based on the law.
Discernment is very much the same. But instead of looking at the outward thoughts or evidence it is look at the purpose of why things happen. If God is the judge, he doesn’t just listen to the words of the attorneys, but he looks at the heart of the defendant.
A lot of times the circumstances that we go through are hard to understand. Why does God allow a hurricane to destroy homes? Why does he allow so many good people to suffer and die? These question can sure be hard to understand without discernment.
Science can explain the happenings while the purpose can only be understood or discernment my God through the Holy Spirit.
1 Corinthians 2:10-16 But God hath revealed them unto us by his Spirit: for the Spirit searcheth all things, yea, the deep things of God. For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God. Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God. Which things also we speak, not in the words which man’s wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual. But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man. For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ.
God has a deeper reason for allowing things to happen in this world. Bad things exist because of sin. (Remember God did not create sin. Sin entered the world because of a man’s decision.) We cannot full understand the why, until we understand and get to know who God is better. Having the mind of Christ (or thinking in accordance with Scripture) is the first requirement for learning discernment.
Without it, we can end up listening to false teachings and make misjudgments of others or situations.
You wouldn’t want a judge that isn’t discerning therefore before we judge we need to examine ourselves with the mirror of God’s word.
Matthew 7:3-5 And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother’s eye, but considerest not the beam that is in thine own eye? Or how wilt thou say to thy brother, Let me pull out the mote out of thine eye; and, behold, a beam is in thine own eye? Thou hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye; and then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother’s eye.
So, that we too can live a life of discernment. - Diligence
I don’t know about you, but with the changing weather lately, I just haven’t wanted to do anything. I have had no motivation to go outside because everything is wet and cold, and when I am inside, I literally just want to be a couch potato. Does anyone else feel this way?
It wasn’t until I did this study on diligence that I realized that I was being the exact opposite. I was in fact being slothful by allowing myself to stop caring or not see things as important. I lacked energy, concern or motivation about doing the tasks I had been given, but… I know now that something definitely needed to change… and quickly.
Diligence is visualizing each task as a special assignment from the Lord and using all my energies to accomplish it. Well,…I definitely wasn’t doing that. So, first I need to refocus the way I was thinking. Then I needed to ask God for diligence and choose to be faithful in the tasks He gives me, no matter how small.
Luke 16:10 He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much. (Just as God enables us in the small things, he will help us in the big as well.)
Realizing why or how something is important motivates us to work hard to accomplish it. Our eagerness to do the task is diligence.
An example of a special assignment from God that may or may not seem important at the time, is our schoolwork as a child.
He wants us to learn:
Reading – So that he can speak to us through His work.
Science – So we can see his awesome power and intricate design in creation.
History – So we can understand how he worked in the past.
Math – So we know how to function effectively each day of our lives.
As kids we probably didn’t fully understand that our daily homework was a God given task. But looking back at it, we can understand the importance of learning those lessons and maybe we wish that we had taken them a little more seriously.
God has called each and every one of us to do great things. The questions we need to ask ourselves today are, What tasks are before you right now? Are you giving all your energies to accomplish them today? Or are you being slothful, as I was, because of the weather, business of life, or simply no desire?
Just think about it today. Are you being diligent or Slothful? - Determination
We all have those times in our lives when we just don’t want to do something. Or when something gets to be too challenging or seem to just not be working, we respond by forsaking that task all together for something that might be easier to accomplish. Or possibly, when we get too tired or fed up with how long something is taking, we decide to be lazy for a while by take a break and do something that we prefer.
The only problem is that this, to God, is call faintheartedness, which has the definition of a person who may decide to do something, but in response to the first distraction or hardship they encounter, quickly forsakes their resolve to accomplish their goal. When we put it that way, it does sound pretty bad.
“But stuff is hard.” “I get tired easily.” “What’s the point when nothing seems to be working.” “It’s only a short break, even though I did fall asleep last time.” “What’s wrong with trying something different?”
These are all things that I have personally said to myself to justify my times of faintheartedness. But it isn’t until recently that I learned that my excuses are actually preventing me from trusting God and determining to fulfill God’s plan for my life.
Determination is purposing to accomplish God’s goals in God’s time regardless of the opposition. So, when those difficult situations come up and all I want is to give up, He in fact wants me to persevere through it with His help.
He tells us to expect challenges or opposition to the goals he has set for us. The devil will do all he can to stop us from fulfilling God’s plans. He can use anything or anyone to discourage us. Our own friends or family may say that we are too young, not good enough, or that it is a waste of time, but God promises to help believers to get to the point where they can believe, that they can do it.
Philippians 4:13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
If we are determined then we will look for ways to overcome the obstacles and press on towards accomplishing our God give goals. Sometimes there may be some risk or loss involved, but the sacrifices we make will be a small comparison to the end rewards.
We can’t be so focused on our comfort and popularity that we fail at completing the tasks that God has given each and every one of us. Anything worth pursuing in life will require work. Exercising our faith and exerting our energy to develop our God-given talents will be well worth our time and effort. Plus, it will equip us to serve God and others more efficiently in the future.
When God calls us to a task, He promises to give us the grace to persevere, the strength to overcome difficulties (if we let him), and the wisdom to find a way around obstacles. All we need is a little faith in God and then do as God leads.
1 Thessalonians 5:24 Faithful is he that calleth you, who also will do it. - Dependability
Imagine with me for a moment that you are sitting at your desk at work, whether it is a small cubicle or a large office, and your boss comes in with that look… You know which one I am talking about. The one that says I have something that I need you to do. Now the specific details of that look or the expectations of that boss are determined by what they expect or hope from you.
There are two very different character traits that determine those expectations. One is that your boss sees you as a dependable employee that works hard to be consistent in finishing given commitments. The other one is that your boss sees you as an inconsistent employee, therefore only giving you something of least importance that may not be in a rush to complete. Either way you are given a responsibility, but how the boss sees you is greatly different.
The definition of dependability is simply a reliable person that works hard to consistently honor their commitments. When given a job they always get it done. Inconsistency is someone who lets others down, by not completing give tasks.
We all know what it is like to have someone that is inconsistent at work with the tasks they are assigned. Usually, people become disappointed, projects aren’t completed on time or to the right standard, and a lot of trust in that person is broken.
Proverbs 25:19 Confidence in an unfaithful man in time of trouble is like a broken tooth, and a foot out of joint.
But when someone rises to the challenge and overcomes difficulties to fulfill their small, daily responsibilities, others begin to trust in that person to be reliable for greater opportunities in the future.
Luke 16:10 He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much.
Do you honor your commitments consistently or only occasionally?
If you are following through only for your own gain, you will likely compromise when you are no longer benefitting. When we focus on God’s love for others and seek their benefits first, rather than ourselves, we will not want to disappoint them.
When a dependable person makes a promise:
1. They will consider how quickly plans can change.
2. They will do their best to prevent the unexpected from hindering their commitments.
3. They will think ahead by setting their priorities in order.
Dependability may require less sleep, working longer hours, missing fun events, etc. but it gains, besides money, a reliable reputation and trustworthy character.
So, when your boss walks into your office what does his look tell you about your dependability? - Deference
Are you tired of all the eyes that always seem to be watching you?
1 Timothy 4:12 Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.
God instructs us to be examples to all that see us, whether they are young or old. Our choosing to make wise, God honoring decisions can influence other’s lives to want to know and follow Christ for themselves.
Deference is limiting MY freedom in order not to offend the tastes of those God has called me to serve. Everyone you are instructed to serve – your parents, siblings, neighbors, and church family – all have their own preferences.
A person’s preferences may not mean much to us, but by laying aside what we think is best or most efficient, and honoring their choices or desires, we are in fact demonstrating deference. In simple form, we are preferring others above ourselves.
Romans 12:10 Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another;
Now, I don’t know about you, but personally, giving up my desires and my perfect plans for someone else’s ideas, is not always the easiest. But the only other option often ends up being rude. And rudeness is the exact opposite of deference.
When we think of someone that is rude, we see an unpleasant person that only thinks about themselves. They are inconsiderate, impolite, thoughtless, hurtful and offensive, which is the definition of rudeness.
Philippians 1:9-10 And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; That ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ;
When we find ourselves wanting our own way, we need to remember this command from God.
1 Peter 5:5 Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.
God’s grace will enable us to lay aside our comforts, desires, and freedoms so we can show His love to others in deference. When we do this, we receive a peace that passes all understanding.
So, when those eyes are on you, what will you do? Are you willing to limit your freedoms to follow God and serve others? Are you able to let go of your own desires to be an example to those who watch you? No matter what those eyes are on you. It is up to you what they see. - Decisiveness
Do we have a commitment to always do what is right, even before we have a decision to make?
As believers in Christ, we have the truth of God’s Word that helps us hold firm to our spiritual convictions. We also have the Holy Spirit that is always ready to help us when difficult circumstances arise.
James 1:5-6 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. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed.
God’s wisdom is always at our fingertips.
Psalm 119:105 Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.
God has given us his word so that we can have a clear path to follow.
Committing to obey God prepares us to make the right decisions whenever something unexpected comes into our lives, but we have to make that choice for ourselves.
Some will choose to put off making this decision. They will become what is called double-minded (wavering between two opposing opinions or options). It becomes God’s way versus their way or God’s desires versus their desires.
Now, no believer will openly say that they don’t trust God, but in their hearts and minds they may think that maybe God’s way isn’t the best way.
This is where our faith in God is tested. When we trust God with every area of our lives the stronger it becomes. The more we believe that God’s way is the right way, the more we will grow and enjoy the peace that comes with trusting Him.
To get there, we have the wonderful privilege to study God’s Word for ourselves, hide it in our hearts, and then apply it to our daily lives. The more we dig into His Word, grow to know Him more thoroughly, and allow him into our lives; the more His love and truth we will come to understand.
Proverbs 1:29-33 For that they hated knowledge, and did not choose the fear of the Lord: They would none of my counsel: they despised all my reproof. Therefore shall they eat of the fruit of their own way, and be filled with their own devices. For the turning away of the simple shall slay them, and the prosperity of fools shall destroy them. But whoso hearkeneth unto me shall dwell safely, and shall be quiet from fear of evil.
When we choose to be double-minded, or choose not to make a decision at all (which is just another form of double-mindedness), we are promised to reap the consequences of those choices. But when we choose to follow God’s counsel, which is found in His word or through spiritual leaders, then we can dwell in safety.
So, I ask each of you today? Are you being double-minded or decisive in your commitment to always do what is right? - Creativity
Do any of you have that one person at work that never seems to be doing anything? And then when they do work, it is never done well?
A lot of times there is a reason this person is like that. Their under-achievement could be due to simple laziness, but it can also be due to feeling inadequate or having a fear of failure.
Galatians 6:9 And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.
We can all fall into one of those things at one time or another, but what can help us is being creative in our thinking.
Creativity is literally approaching a need, a task, or an idea from a NEW perspective.
Everyone has a unique way at looking at things or circumstances, but only looking at them from our own perspective can actually be very limiting. Many of our personal and work problems can be solved by looking at situations differently. This doesn’t mean you have to change your opinions on anything. It simply means that you take what you already know and apply it in a different way.
Creativity grows through observation and study that you put into something by reading, brainstorming, or even discussing it with others.
As Christians we become more creative when we read God’s word and begin to look at everything through the perspective that God gives. He wants us to use our creativity for His purpose in ministry and serving others.
Romans 12:2 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.
We can’t let the opinions of others keep us from obeying God’s calling for us. Them saying that we have to overcome all our problems before serving God is wrong. God never expects us to be perfect or even fix everything in our lives on our own. He wants to help us.
HE WANTS TO HELP YOU.
God promises to meet all our needs, even offering us forgiveness from our sins. If he can save us from eternity in Hell, why can’t he also help us on a daily basis with all our little issues?
We no longer have to be under-achievers. We can take the time to look at what is in front of us, whither it is something at work, a relationship, or even something at church, and see it in a new perspective and creatively come up with a solution. God is ready and willing to help you see with new, creative eyes. You just have to ask him for them. - 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 5:16I 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:
- Keep eye contact
- Nod your head as you understand the instructions
- Remove distractions (turn off the TV, put down your phone, removed your headphones/earbuds)
- 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.