LIFE SKILLS FOR IMPACT (4)

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness” – Galatians 5:22

CHARACTER is allied to Integrity and central to Lifestyles and LIFE SKILLS for IMPACT: "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law" (Gal.5: 22-23). Christian Character is a product of the workings of the Holy Spirit. Character tells what a person really is – the strength of moral fiber. Character is the sum of our dispositions, thoughts, intentions, desires, and actions.

It's important to distinguish between character and reputation. Character refers to the core values and moral qualities that define an individual; while "reputation" is the public perception of those qualities. Character is what a person is internally; reputation is what others think they are. Character is a reflection of our true self, while reputation can be influenced by perception and even misinformation. Character is developed through consistent choices and actions that align with God's will, while reputation is how others view those choices.

Building Character involves actively striving for virtues like integrity, compassion, empathy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Integrity – the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles – is a crucial aspect of character-building. Impactful living demands that we are built up in related Christ-like virtues such as accountability, dependability, reliability, responsibility, transparency, and trustworthiness. Today's meditation passage outlines the Fruit of the Spirit, which comprises characteristics of a godly person, and key attributes of a Christlike Character, namely:

• Love: A foundational element, encompassing love for God and active compassion to our "neighbours."

• Joy: A cheerful spirit and ability to rejoice even in adverse conditions or difficult circumstances.

• Peace: A state of tranquillity and freedom from anxiety and worry, irrespective of the circumstances.

• Patience: The capacity to endure challenges and frustration with grace while sustaining calmness and poise.

• Kindness: Compassion and sensitivity towards others, especially the vulnerable and those in need.

• Goodness: Thinking of the needs of others and acting with generosity, compassion, and positivity.

• Faithfulness: Being full of faith, active in faith, dependable, reliable, trustworthy, and loyal.

• Gentleness: Refers to a humble, meek, and mild spirit, not prone to harshness, rashness, or aggression.

• Self-control: Discipline or the ability to manage one's emotions and actions. 

God’s Word encourages us to pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness, and gentleness (1Tim. 6:11-12). Colossians 3:12-14 sums it up: "Therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, put on tender mercies, kindness, humility, meekness, longsuffering; bearing with one another, and forgiving one another, if anyone has a complaint against another; even as Christ forgave you, so you also must do. But above all these things, put on love, which is the bond of perfection."