The
Importance of Character
Introduction:
How important is character in our world? Most
people have some recognition of character. Most can identify the character of those around them. How is
your character? Character is: inner
strength…that which defines a person…it is not what he does…but what he is…it
is who you are when no one is watching.
I. Prov. 3:1-12 - Character is that which
defines a person.
A.
Notice: character involves one’s heart –
the inner part of man.
1.
Prov. 23:7;
Mt. 12:35 – it is the issue of the heart – it is who we are!
2.
Prov. 3:1-2 -
Our lives should be defined through our obedience to God!
3.
Prov. 3:3-7
– should strive to live our lives in kindness, truth, and faith in God.
4.
Prov. 3:8-12
– Honor God by treating Him w/reverence & by accepting His
discipline.
B.
The one that
submits to these qualities will live life well and:
1.
in peace
2.
in favor
w/those around them.
3.
W/strength,
plenty, and God’s love.
II. Conversion to Christ Involves a Change
in Character.
A.
Col. 3:5-11
1.
Col. 3:12-15
– Notice: we are to put on a new heart – a new inner man!
B.
Must submit
our lives to THE authority – Jesus Christ – Col. 3:17.
III. Things which develop character: Heb.
12:4-11
A.
Difficult
circumstances.
1.
Gen. 22:1-19
-Trials in faith.
a.
See also: Rom.
5:3-4; 1 Pet. 1:6-7
2. Temptations – 1
Cor. 10:12-13; 1 Pet. 5:8-9
a.
Js. 4:6-8
– character can be strengthened & valuable lessons can be learned!
B.
Successful
circumstances – 2 Chron. 32.
1.
Lk. 12:16-21
– how we deal w/advantages is an occasion for our character to show
through.
Conclusion
A.
Character will
cause one to:
1.
thank God for
being w/him during times of trouble AS WELL AS times of blessings &
prosperity!
2.
Be patient and
wait on the Lord.
3.
Phil. 4:4-7
– pray and rejoice always. Notice the example of Paul.
B.
Character is
being conformed to the image of Christ. Are you trying to match up to His example?