Weighing Character
Fred Smith, Sr.
LEADERS WITH STRONG CHARACTER have power, dignity, and integrity. Christian character is built around the divine cardinal virtues. Character develops when the mind and heart instruct the will in accepting these controlling virtues, out of which come Christlike values and actions. Divine virtues are the roots from which such values grow. The virtues are the principles. The values produce techniques, the modus operandi. Where the virtues are perverted by Satan, the character is evil. It may be strong or weak, but it is destructive. In this chapter, I will deal mainly with the development and evidence of good character—the foundation on which to build a life of respect and worth. Fortunately our character can be strong without being perfect. Christ alone had perfect character. David, the man after God's own heart, had faults. Peter, the disciple of Jesus, could be fickle. Moses, strong-willed and yet afraid. Abraham could lie. Bold Elijah became scared. These, and many others in Scripture, had strong character, though not perfect. When I was young I often heard the cliché "God can use any vessel except a dirty one." From my many years in Christian work, however, I found that God does use dirty ones, because he doesn't have any other kind to use. All of God's children have flawed character. Those who appear flawless have not been pressured enough in their vulnerable spot. It is enough that we want solid character, for then we are teachable and reclaimable after failing. The worst flaw is to believe we are not vulnerable. We must always pray, "Lord, lead us not into temptation," and when in temptation must believe that he has provided a way of escape. It is helpful to know our weak points: the ego, fear to confront, love or envy of ...
Like the preview? To read this complete article
and 18,013 more in the archive—JOIN NOW!
Easily find high-quality, well-researched materials that provide a Christian perspective on topics ranging from headlines to history.
Start using this invaluable tool TODAY for preparing your Bible studies, presentations, class lectures, sermons, meetings, and more.
|
It's easy and quick to join:
Brought to You by Christianity Today Int'l |  |
|
| 
Find similar articles
E-mail this page
