Christian character

23
Nov
2024
Dressing Your Heart: Wearing God’s Character Daily

Dressing Your Heart: Wearing God’s Character Daily

God’s Chosen Wardrobe

“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.”

Colossians 3:12

Every morning, you make choices about what to wear.

You consider the weather, your activities for the day, and the impression you want to make.

But have you ever thought about the spiritual clothes you put on?

Your Spiritual Identity

Before telling you what to wear, God reminds you who you are:

  • Chosen by God
  • Holy (set apart)
  • Dearly loved

This isn’t about earning God’s favor – you already have it. These spiritual clothes are your response to His love.

Divine Dress Code

Let’s look at each piece of your spiritual wardrobe:

Compassion

This is more than feeling sorry for someone. It’s allowing your heart to be moved to action when you see others hurting.

Kindness

Think of kindness as practical love in action. It’s choosing to be generous and helpful, even when it’s inconvenient.

Humility

This isn’t thinking less of yourself – it’s thinking of yourself less. It’s choosing to put others’ needs on the same level as your own.

Gentleness

Being gentle doesn’t mean being weak. It’s having strength under control, like a powerful horse responding to a light touch.

Patience

This is the ability to stay calm and gracious, even when others test your limits.

Making It Practical

Morning Routine

Just as you check the mirror before leaving home, try this spiritual check:

  • Am I wearing compassion in my attitudes?
  • Have I put on kindness in my plans for today?
  • Is humility visible in my interactions?
  • Will others experience my gentleness?
  • Is patience ready for the day’s challenges?

Real-Life Application

Think about one person who challenges you. Now, consciously choose to:

  • Look for reasons they might be struggling (compassion)
  • Do something helpful for them (kindness)
  • Listen to their perspective (humility)
  • Speak softly and carefully (gentleness)
  • Give them time to change (patience)

When It Gets Difficult

Remember, you’re not trying to manufacture these qualities on your own. They’re gifts from God that you’re learning to wear well.

When you struggle, return to the truth that you are chosen and deeply loved.

A Prayer for Your Day

“Father, thank You for choosing me and loving me. Help me dress myself in Your character today. When I’m tempted to put on judgment, criticism, or impatience, remind me of the beautiful clothes You’ve given me to wear. Amen.”

Remember, just as you wouldn’t leave home without clothes, don’t start your day without consciously putting on these spiritual qualities.

Which piece of God’s wardrobe do you most need to wear today?

Upside Down: 15 Week Bible Study

 You Have Been Seated with Christ in the Heavenly Realms

God’s great hope for us is not simply the forgiveness of sins and a place in heaven when we die; but rather, He wants us totally restored, in heart, mind and soul . . . NOW!

As we enter into this amazing adventure with God, we soon recognize that we are a part of something tremendous, something that is beyond our earthy perspective, and we are transported into the heavens with Christ; we live, breathe, and find our being in Him!

This Bible study will help you rediscover how it all began, what happened in the Garden of Eden, who is the Devil really, and what is he up to today.

  • Head into the heavenly realms and discover profound truths concerning your relationship with God, and His incredible plan for you.
  • Search your heart, preparing for a fresh baptism of the Holy Spirit. In this study, you will enter into God’s armory, suiting up with the whole armor of God.
  • Discover the Keys to the Kingdom given to you, and learn what they unlock; discovering your true nature in Christ, the authority given, the Sword of the Spirit, the covering armor, and the mission ahead, you will truly learn to pray . . . Upside Down!

Get your copy Today – Pray Upside Down

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration, Humility, Love
09
Nov
2024
Perseverance: Growing Through Life’s Challenges

Perseverance: Growing Through Life’s Challenges

Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

James 1:4

Embracing the Process

Have you ever tried to rush something that simply needed time?

Maybe you’ve pushed a flower to bloom or hurried a cake to bake. Some things just can’t be rushed – including your spiritual growth.

Understanding Perseverance

Think of perseverance like a master craftsman. It’s not just about hanging on – it’s about being shaped and refined through the process. Every challenge you face has potential to:

  • Build character
  • Deepen faith
  • Strengthen resolve
  • Shape wisdom

Purpose of the Process

James isn’t talking about suffering for suffering’s sake.

He’s revealing a profound truth: perseverance has a specific job to do in your life, and it needs time to complete its work.

The Journey to Maturity

What Maturity Looks Like

Spiritual maturity isn’t about:

  • Knowing all the answers
  • Never struggling
  • Always feeling strong
  • Having perfect faith

Instead, it’s about:

  • Responding well to challenges
  • Growing through difficulties
  • Trusting God’s process
  • Learning from experience

Promise of Completion

Notice James mentions being “complete, not lacking anything.” This suggests that life’s challenges aren’t random – they’re filling in gaps you might not even know exist.

Making It Personal

Your Growth Journey

Consider how perseverance works in your life:

  1. Challenges reveal your current state
  2. Struggles highlight growth areas
  3. Difficulties develop character
  4. Time allows for deep change

Practical Application

When facing challenges, ask yourself:

  • What can I learn here?
  • How might this help me grow?
  • What character trait is being developed?
  • Where do I need to trust God more?

The Process at Work

Signs of Growth

You’ll know perseverance is doing its work when you:

  • Respond differently to problems
  • Find peace in difficulty
  • Trust God more readily
  • See purpose in challenges

Areas of Development

Perseverance often works in:

  • Your patience
  • Your faith
  • Your character
  • Your relationships
  • Your priorities

Moving Forward

Embracing the Journey

Instead of asking “Why is this happening?” try asking:

  • “What can I learn?”
  • “How can I grow?”
  • “Where is God in this?”
  • “What’s being developed in me?”

Practical Steps

To let perseverance finish its work:

  1. Don’t rush through challenges
  2. Look for lessons in difficulties
  3. Trust God’s timing
  4. Embrace the growth process

Your Part in the Process

Active Participation

While God does the deep work, you can:

  • Stay open to learning
  • Maintain a teachable spirit
  • Trust the process
  • Keep moving forward

Daily Choices

Each day offers opportunities to:

  • Choose patience over rushing
  • Pick trust over worry
  • Select growth over comfort
  • Embrace learning over escaping

The Bigger Picture

God’s Promise

Remember, this process leads to being:

  • Mature – developed in character
  • Complete – lacking no essential quality
  • Equipped – ready for what’s ahead
  • Prepared – shaped for God’s purposes

Your Journey Forward

Today, you might be in the middle of a challenging season. Remember that:

  • Every trial has purpose
  • Each challenge shapes you
  • Growth takes time
  • The result is worth it

Your Next Step

Take a moment to consider where perseverance is working in your life right now. Instead of resisting it, try embracing it as God’s tool for your growth.

A Closing Thought

You don’t have to love the challenges you’re facing. But you can learn to appreciate what they’re producing in you.

Trust that God is using every experience to shape you into someone who is mature and complete, lacking nothing.

Remember, the goal isn’t just to get through your challenges – it’s to grow through them. Let perseverance do its complete work. What’s developing in you is worth the wait.

Upside Down: 15 Week Bible Study

 You Have Been Seated with Christ in the Heavenly Realms

God’s great hope for us is not simply the forgiveness of sins and a place in heaven when we die; but rather, He wants us totally restored, in heart, mind and soul . . . NOW!

As we enter into this amazing adventure with God, we soon recognize that we are a part of something tremendous, something that is beyond our earthy perspective, and we are transported into the heavens with Christ; we live, breathe, and find our being in Him!

This Bible study will help you rediscover how it all began, what happened in the Garden of Eden, who is the Devil really, and what is he up to today.

  • Head into the heavenly realms and discover profound truths concerning your relationship with God, and His incredible plan for you.
  • Search your heart, preparing for a fresh baptism of the Holy Spirit. In this study, you will enter into God’s armory, suiting up with the whole armor of God.
  • Discover the Keys to the Kingdom given to you, and learn what they unlock; discovering your true nature in Christ, the authority given, the Sword of the Spirit, the covering armor, and the mission ahead, you will truly learn to pray . . . Upside Down!

Get your copy Today – Pray Upside Down

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration, Faith
28
Jun
2024
Patience is Key: Cultivating Gentleness for Spiritual Growth

Patience is Key: Cultivating Gentleness for Spiritual Growth

The life of a Christian isn’t always sunshine and rainbows. There will be times when you encounter difficult people, disagreements arise, and frustration sets in.

The apostle Paul, in his second letter to Timothy, offers guidance on navigating these situations effectively. In 2 Timothy 2:24, he instructs:

“And the Lord’s servant must not be quarrelsome but must be kind to everyone, able to teach, patient with difficult people.”

2 Timothy 2:24

Power of Gentleness

This verse highlights the importance of gentleness and patience, especially when dealing with challenging situations.

It’s tempting to respond with anger or defensiveness when faced with opposition. However, Paul encourages a different approach – one rooted in kindness and understanding.

Imagine this: You’re discussing your faith with a friend who has different beliefs. The conversation gets heated, and your friend starts criticizing your views.

Instead of getting defensive and arguing back, what if you responded with gentleness and patience? This approach creates a more open and receptive environment for meaningful conversation.

Developing the Fruit of the Spirit

Gentleness and patience are part of the “fruit of the Spirit” mentioned in Galatians 5:22-23. By cultivating these qualities, we become more Christ-like in our interactions with others.

Here are some ways to develop patience and gentleness:

  • Pray for the Holy Spirit’s guidance: Ask God to help you cultivate these qualities in your life.
  • Practice active listening: Pay close attention to what others are saying, and try to understand their perspective.
  • Respond with empathy: Put yourself in other people’s shoes and try to see things from their point of view.
  • Take a deep breath before reacting: Give yourself a moment to calm down before responding in a heated situation.

Effective Communication for Spiritual Growth

By developing patience and gentleness, you become a more effective communicator of your faith. People are more likely to be receptive to your message when they feel respected and understood.

Remember, patience is not weakness; it’s strength under control. As you cultivate these qualities, you’ll not only navigate difficult situations more effectively but also grow closer to Christ and encourage the spiritual growth of others.

~ Check Out ~
“One Minute with God”

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration, Humility
18
Apr
2024
Seeing Clearly: Overcoming Self-Righteousness

Seeing Clearly: Overcoming Self-Righteousness

Self-righteousness – the belief we’re superior to others – creates a blind spot hindering our connection with God and others.

Blindness of Self-Righteousness

Matthew 7:3 – “Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye?”

Jesus uses a memorable image: someone trying to remove a speck from another’s eye while having a “plank” in their own. We can’t see clearly to help others if our own issues remain unaddressed.

Self-righteousness fosters hypocrisy, resentment, and isolation.

Signs of Self-Righteousness

Self-righteousness can be subtle. Here are some signs:

  • Constant Comparison: We judge ourselves superior or inferior based on achievements, looks, or opinions.
  • Disdain for Others: We look down on those with differing beliefs, labeling them as “sinners” or “enemies.”
  • Justifying Ourselves: We use our interpretation of scripture or tradition to justify actions and attitudes, ignoring other perspectives or God’s guidance.
  • Unwillingness to Admit Mistakes: We refuse apologies or blame others for our problems.
  • Echo Chambers: We avoid those who challenge us and surround ourselves with those who agree or praise us.

Overcoming Self-Righteousness

Conquering self-righteousness requires God’s grace and support from others. Here’s how to break free:

  • Confession and Forgiveness: Admit our imperfections, seeking God’s forgiveness and cleansing. We acknowledge His love and acceptance are based on grace, not merit.
  • Self-examination and Repentance: Regularly ask God to reveal hidden sins and self-righteous attitudes. Repent and seek renewal.
  • Openness to God’s Word and Others: Study scripture without manipulation, submitting to its authority. Learn from Christians with diverse backgrounds and respect their insights.
  • Humility and Servant-hood: Think of others more highly than ourselves, seeking to glorify God and serve others, not ourselves.
  • Love and Grace: Love others as God loves them, replacing judgment with compassion. Forgive as God forgives us, fostering fellowship and avoiding isolation.

Helping Others Overcome Self-Righteousness

Self-righteousness impacts our relationships. Here’s how to help others:

  • Modeling Christ-like Behavior: Show humility, grace, and love through words and actions. Don’t boast, but acknowledge God’s grace. Encourage and uplift others.
  • Truth Spoken in Love: Address self-righteousness gently and respectfully. Challenge and correct, but avoid attacking or accusing. Use persuasive words that bring healing.
  • Prayer: Pray with and for others, relying on God’s guidance.
  • Support and Fellowship: Walk alongside others, offering acceptance and encouragement. Celebrate achievements and support them through difficulties.

Self-righteousness is a hurdle, but God offers freedom. He replaces self-centeredness with Christ-centeredness, enabling harmonious relationships and a life reflecting His light.

Here now! Let me get that speck out of your eye!

~ Check Out ~
“One Minute with God”

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration
08
Apr
2024
Power of Truthful Living

Power of Truthful Living

Honesty is a cornerstone of Christian life. James 5:12 instructs, “Above all, my brothers and sisters, do not swear—not by heaven or by earth or by anything else. All you need to say is a simple ‘Yes’ or ‘No.’ Otherwise you will be condemned” (NIV).

This verse emphasizes the importance of truthfulness in our words and actions.

Why Honesty Matters

Honesty builds trust. When we’re truthful, people see us as reliable and dependable, fostering strong relationships.

Dishonesty, however, erodes trust, creating doubt and suspicion. It damages the very foundation of connection.

Honesty is also a reflection of character. It demonstrates integrity and a commitment to truth. Conversely, dishonesty reveals a willingness to compromise values for personal gain.

Temptation to Lie

Despite the importance of honesty, we can be tempted to lie. Fear of consequences or the allure of personal gain might cloud our judgment.

However, the Bible is clear: lying is wrong. Proverbs 12:22 states, “The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in people who are trustworthy”.

Dishonesty not only disobeys God’s commands but also strains our relationship with Him.

Power of Truth

Honesty is ultimately the best policy. It frees us from the burden of deception. We avoid the stress of maintaining lies and the guilt of wrongdoing. More importantly, honesty fosters transformation.

Truthfulness allows us to be authentic and vulnerable. We let others see the real us, creating deeper connections.

It also strengthens our faith. Honesty with God opens us up to His grace and mercy, allowing Him to transform us from within.

A Truthful Life

Honesty is a vital Christian virtue. It builds trust, reflects character, and strengthens relationships. It allows for authentic connections and fosters spiritual growth.

Commit to living truthfully in all aspects of your life, trusting that God values your commitment to truth.

~ Check Out ~
“One Minute with God”

Posted by onthesolidrock in Daily Inspiration