Godly character
33 Do not be misled: "Bad company corrupts good character." 34 Come back to your senses as you ought, and stop sinning; for there are some who are ignorant of God-I say this to your shame. NIV 1 Corinthians 15:33-34
Godly character is evidence of a redeemed life.
When a defense lawyer wants to win a case he makes every attempt to discredit the evidence against his client. This sometimes means attacking the evidence so vigorously that it is destroyed and no longer worth anything.
Satan cannot destroy the truth of Christ's resurrection and victory so he goes after the evidence. A godly character is evidence of Christ's resurrection. Satan will come after your character with a passion to destroy it.
Character is the quality that makes an individual. Decency, self control, integrity in what we do and say - both publicly and privately, is evidence of Christ influence in your life. The more of Christ that shines through you the more of His kingdom is being established on earth.
Lying, gossiping and backbiting are evidence of a life controlled by satan. This is not what Christ has called us to. Each time we do these things satan laughs at us and congratulates himself over anther victory.
We need to come to our senses as Christians and realize more is at stake than our own 'little names' when we act as those who have no reason to live with integrity.
Each time you are tempted to compromise your stand and character as a Christian a battle is going on. Imagine what would happen if all Christians started living an honest life. Their no being no and their yes, yes. Imagine the influence you would possess if people around you could rely on your word as the truth and your character as reliable. You would do more for the gospel of Christ than many words could accomplish.
When you say you will do something - do it.
When you allow the character of Christ to influence your life it will inhibit the control of the world over you. People will start to take notice of you. You will start to be an influence over them.
God will also be able to trust you with His power and gifts because your character will inhibit the abuse of it.
Character is the balance of power. Once we get a revelation of the importance of godly character it will be easier for Christ to trust us with the true riches. All our decisions in life are rooted in our character.
Look in the mirror of God's Word and embrace His character. There is a lot at stake when you don't.