CHARACTER MATTERS! Just the other day I was leading a DISCOVERY Bible Study about David being “anointed” for kingship in 1 Samuel 16. The question arose, “What do you consider to be key qualities you would look for in a leader of an organization if you were examining a resume, following up on references, or conducting an interview of a candidate? Almost immediately someone suggested “QUALITY OF CHARACTER!”
CHARACTER IS IMPORTANT – even essential for God’s favor and blessing!
In a passage I read this morning during my time of “coffee with the Lord” (Genesis 13-14) Abram exhibited character on several accounts…
First he exhibited it in his generous and accommodating attitude to his nephew, Lot, avoiding ongoing conflict and allowing Lot to choose where he would go with his flocks, herds and possessions.
Secondly, he expressed it by immediately marshalling his men and resources to go to Lot’s rescue when he was captured by enemy armies.
Finally, and perhaps most telling, Abram displayed character by refusing to take any spoil from a pagan king with the explanation, “I have lifted my hand to the Lord, God Most High, Possessor of heaven and earth, that I would not take a thread or a sandal strap or anything that is yours, lest you should say, ‘I have made Abram rich!’”
Listen, I am convinced that the covenant blessings assured to Abram in this passage and others were the result of God honoring the character of Abraham (cp. 13:14-18 and chapter 15)! These were blessings not earned, but freely given to a person who exhibited “faith-obedience” toward God and overall godly character.
I WANT TO BE A PERSON OF GODLY CHARACTER – A PERSON GOD CAN BLESS – DON’T YOU?
Coffee With The Lord 