DEVELOPING CONSISTENT GODLY CHARACTER
September 10
However, let us keep walking in step with the same standard to which we have attained. Philippians 3:16
The apostle Paul provides an excellent example of how we need to develop consistent, godly character. We could have chosen Joseph, Moses, Daniel or John the Baptizer. Like us, the apostle Paul had a definite turning point in his life and got on a tough path to developing consistent, godly character. Here, in Philippians 3:7-17, we get insight into this process for our benefit. It begins by putting aside the things that are hindering your spiritual growth. Another way to state this is to say that Paul valued Christ and knowing Christ above everything else that he had achieved. Could you say that? Is Jesus Christ the #1 priority of your life? If not, then your quest for consistent godly character will be like the person who wants to be a good pianist, but only practices when it is convenient. Oh, he is talented. His teacher says that he could be great, but it isn’t important to him. You have the Holy Spirit. You have a new mind. You have a spiritual gift from God. You have the resources that you need.
On April 14, 1912, 10:00 p.m., the Titanic crashed into an iceberg in the mid-Atlantic and four hours later sank. One woman in a life boat asked if she could go back to her room. She was given only three minutes to do so. She hurried down the corridors, already tilting dangerously, and through the gambling room piled ankle-deep in money. In her room were her treasures waiting to be taken, but instead, she snatched up three oranges and hurried back to the boat. One hour before she would have naturally chosen diamonds over oranges, but in the face of death, values are seen more clearly.
What do you value most? Valuing Jesus the most will enable you to continue on the path to consistent godly character. Jesus said, “If anyone wishes to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me” (Matthew 16:24).
Ike Graham