“…those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit, the things of the Spirit.” – Romans 8:5 (NKJV)
Stewardship involves being committed to values and employing responsible planning and management of resources. Let’s consider being a good steward of character-building.
What is character building? Character building is closely linked with personal development. It encourages self-awareness, introspection, and emotional intelligence. Individuals with strong character are more likely to have a clear understanding of their strengths and weaknesses. They are resilient, adaptable, and capable of handling adversities with grace.
As you navigate this life, you will meet new people, take on new challenges, and try new things. According to John C. Maxwell, ‘Demonstrating honesty will make people respect you, acting with integrity will show people that you hold yourself to a high standard of behaviour, and showing generosity by treating people well will make people want to collaborate with you.’
It is character, not anointing, that makes a man or woman of God. Character shaping takes place when the pressure comes, when the disappointments mount, and the dreams seem unattainable.
Almighty God expects His people to remain in Him in order to build and be good stewards of their character. Galatians 5:22-23 speaks of the fruit of the Spirit. The Spirit produces these character traits that are found in the nature of Christ. We cannot obtain them without the help of Christ. If we want the fruit of the Spirit: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control, to grow in us, we must join our life to His (John 15:4-5). We must know Him, remember Him, and imitate Him.
Many times, it is in the furnace of affliction and persecution that the truly godly person is made. Romans 5:3-4 (NLT) says, “We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character…”.
Are you allowing the Lord to refine, develop, and help you maintain your character traits? Let us be good stewards of what God has entrusted to our care.
Beloved, God’s plans are always good! Follow them!
Read: Matthew 5:16; 1 Peter 1:6-7
Bible Reading Guide: Proverbs 26:3-12; Titus 2; Habakkuk 1; Habakkuk 2; Habakkuk 3
