Character is defined as the mental and moral qualities distinctive to an individual. (www.oxforddictionaries.com)
As parents, we are instructed to build character in our children. Deuteronomy 11:19 states - "Teach them (God's words) to your children, talking about them when you sit in your house and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up."
As Christians, we build character in our children by teaching them about Jesus and how to live as He instructs. We desire for them to emulate Him in all they do.
We must also focus on our character and building it up to please God. In reality, we can preach and teach our little ones but they will ultimately imitate our behaviors and attitudes. If we are not truly living what we are teaching, our words will be useless.
I have come up with 5 ways that we can build our character daily-
- Live by God's truths. Are we living by God's truths about ourselves or the world's truths? What does our daily self talk sound like? Do we bash ourselves and compare ourselves to others or do we see ourselves as Jesus does? He sees us as His beauties, you know! Philippians 4:8...Finally brothers (and sisters), whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable-if there is any moral excellence and if there is any praise-dwell on these things. Dwell on the fact that you are beautiful to your Savior.
- Our inner circles should be made up of God fearing, Jesus lovin' people. Jesus instructs us to love everyone. He never said only love those like us. However, He never tells us to be besties with people whose hearts are different than ours. In fact, if you read through the gospels you will notice that Jesus' inner circle was made up of people who desired to please Him and please God. They were not perfect by any stretch of the imagination, but they really tired hard to do what was right. These were the people He shared His feelings with. I totally believe that we can be friends with all types of people. However, we should be careful who we allow into our inner hearts and who we allow to influence us. Galatians 5:9...A little yeast leavens the whole lump of dough. Be mindful not to let a little yeast change your heart.
- Entertainment. Do your entertainment choices offend God? If Jesus were to physically walk into the room when you were watching a program, reading a book, listening to a song, etc. would you be embarrassed and ashamed? Tough questions, I know. Romans 12:2...Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God.
- Treatment of others. How are we treating those around us? Are we self centered or Jesus/others centered? This can be tough when we are in a bad mood, aggravated, not feeling well, etc. Also, are we listening to the hurts and needs of those around us even when it may inconvenience us? The way we treat others says a great deal about our hearts and our true feelings towards Jesus. Hebrews 3:13...But encourage each other daily.
- Daily inner beauty treatments. In order to be like Jesus, we must really know Him. Just like with any relationship, to truly know someone we must spend time with them. We listen to them, talk with them, and love on them. It is the same with our relationship with Jesus. We must take the time every single day to hang out with Him. Reading His word, praying, listening to praise music, etc. cleanses us of ugliness. The more we spend time with Him, the more beautiful or hearts become. We should desire to be the Proverbs 31 woman. Proverbs 31:28...Her children rise up and call her blessed. Her husband also praises her-.
Let's be purposeful in building our character. It's not always going to be easy, but it will always be worth it!
xoxo
