Character

Most parents want their children to be people of good “character.” Many employers search for people of “character” along with credentials. Such “character” is not just developed naturally, but intentionally. It can be formed and molded. What better place to develop character than in God’s Word, the Bible?

One of the reasons Timothy grew up as a bright, young prospect in the Christian faith had much to do with being raised under the tutelage of the Scriptures. Paul wrote to Timothy, “...I call to remembrance the genuine faith that is in you, which dwelt first in your  grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice, and I am persuaded is in you also” (2 Timothy 1:5). He later reveals how Timothy possessed such “genuine faith” saying, “...from childhood you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise…” (2 Timothy 3:15). Consider why the Bible is an essential tool to  developing a good character.

First, good “character” comes from good morals. Most parents do not  want their children to be womanizers, alcoholics, cheats or liars. The Bible condemns such practices as sinful and the study of it will reinforce those lessons in our families.

Second, good “character” often stems from the overcoming of trials. Romans 5:2-3 says, “...we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope.” One does not have to personally experience trials to  develop character. We can learn from the trials and experiences of others too. The Old and New Testaments are filled with accounts about the trials and temptations people faced. It does not gloss over the flaws of the godly or justify  the sins of the ungodly. Their actions, both good and bad, are honestly portrayed so we might  learn from their experiences (Romans 15:4). My trials may not be precisely the same as Abraham, Moses, Job, Esther or Daniel but I can learn from  these great men.

Finally, the Bible is extremely valuable in developing good character because it  tells us what God thinks about situations. It is not left up to us what is “good and bad” when it comes to character. If God sets the standards, our basis for good  “character” is objective, rather than subjective. We may look to the person of Christ and see him as our ultimate standard in forgiveness, humility, integrity and many more of the most esteemed character traits.

There are a lot of shady characters out there. The Bible can help if we will just read and apply.

“Most parents
do not want
their children
to be
womanizers,
alcoholics,
cheats or liars.
The Bible
condemns such
practices as
sinful and the
study of it will
reinforce those
lessons in our
families.“

More Why My Family Needs the Bible