Character Building

   As the New Testament reveals Jesus Christ to be the perfect standard by which to measure our character and personal growth and development, it also offers some guidelines which will help all of us mold our characters into what our God would have them to be.

Learn Self-Discipline. Learn to say “no” to self, friends, evil ways, bad habits, etc. Jesus taught self-denial (Matt. 16:24). The apostle Peter taught that “self-control” is to be added to our faith (2 Pet. 1:5-7). A lack of self-discipline is one sure sign of immaturity.

Be Unselfish. Selfishness, the seat of all sins and wrongdoing, is having too much concern with one’s own welfare. It is illustrated in Scripture by both Lot (Gen. 13:8-13) and the rich fool (Luke 12:16-20). It is impossible to make a right decision and be selfish. Moses, in choosing to lead the children of Israel, acted selflessly (Heb. 11:24-26), while, on the other hand, Lot, acting in a purely selfish manner, made a terrible choice which led to tragic consequences (Gen. 13:8ff). Someone has suggested that a good rule to follow is “God first, others second and self third.”

Use Proper Discrimination. Be able to see the difference between good and evil, right and wrong, when there is one. Judge a thing not only by what it is but also by what it will eventually lead to if it is followed to its end.

Form Good Habits. A habit is a thing done often and hence, usually done easily. It is a practice, custom or act that is acquired and becomes automatic. There are two kinds of habits—good and bad. Form good habits in life and abstain from the bad ones.

Use Pure Speech. “Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one” (Col. 4:6). Learn how to communicate. A lack of communication causes many problems. Express yourself properly and well. Do not use filthy or profane language (Eph. 4:29). Profanity is scorned by all right-thinking people. The tongue may be hard to control (Jas. 3:1-12) but it can be and must be controlled.

Be Definite in Aim and Purpose. God created everything for a definite purpose—even you. Be purposeful in living. Do not just drift through life just taking it as it comes. Have an aim in life. Establish proper goals and work hard to reach them. Be determined but not stubborn. Of course, as a Christian, your life is filled with purpose. “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: fear God and keep His commandments, for this is man’s all. For God will bring every work into judgment, including every secret thing, whether good or evil” (Eccl. 12:13-14). Never forget that your ultimate goal is heaven. That will help you keep focused in living each day in the proper manner.

~Eric Paquette