Beyond doubt, and more than ever, God is interested in the development of our character this year. This is because He is preparing a blameless and spotless bride, a generation with integrity and virtue, one whose light is not too dim to shine. I don’t want to miss that and I’m sure the same applies to you.
Every parent wants their child to keep growing and developing, and not remain stagnant. Although, through natural processes, physical growth is considered imminent, development on the other hand occurs at different rates and times. Development is a lifelong process but physical growth ends at some point. Similarly, we are to keep developing our character. I’m still a work-in-progress in this area, it’s not that I’ve attained but I am enjoying the development process and I am extending that invitation to you.
How to develop your character
There are many resources and life coaches out there with ways on how to develop character. However, I present to you the tested, true, and result guaranteed resource – the Bible. “All scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right.-2Timothy 3:16”. The Youversion app is a free and great resource to study the bible. It includes great audio and video devotionals on all aspects of life ,podcasts, and many more. I encourage you to explore this app and your spiritual journey will never be the same again.
Be Intentional
We have to be intentional in the development of our character. “For God is working in you, giving you the desire to do what pleases Him -Phil. 2:13.” The desire is already in us; we only need to activate it by being intentional. Your desire most often will drive your actions. Just like we invest in education and licensing exams to develop our careers, it is the same with the matters of the Spirit. That was why Paul said to the Philippians – continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling – Phil. 2:12. It is a continuous process.
Part of my journey to character development
During my devotion one morning, I had a strong conviction to apologize to someone regarding a discussion that happened the day before. I didn’t want to do that because I didn’t say anything wrong. Later in the day, I was listening to one of Joyce Meyer’s sermon when she mentioned the same issue. I knew immediately that it was meant for me and I apologized and that cleared the air. I had peace in my heart. Sometimes it’s not about being right or wrong, it’s about being at peace with men as much as possible.
Lately, I have had different encounters when it was logical to be quiet and receive dishonest gains, but each time I had to remind myself that it is not in alignment with the character development that I am trusting God for.
Finally, it’s important to fix our thoughts, because they often metamorphose into actions and can shape our character. In this season, allow God to mold and develop your character, so that your light can shine and you can be ready when He returns.
Shalom.