Character of the Heart
Many are seeking promotions with gains in finances. Others are seeking get-rich-quick programs thinking that an increase of money will bring them true peace. And others yet desire fancy titles that bring status and prestige. But how many of us are seeking a pure heart? The Bible teaches us that increase apart from godly character can ruin our lives spiritually and naturally. I have often thought that if you want to ruin someone’s life give them a million dollars. The reason I say that is because many people do not have the character in place to handle such things. Increase apart from godly character develops selfishness. Promotion without a pure heart leads to pride. Pride comes before a fall. 1 Timothy 6:6 says, “But godliness with contentment is great gain.”
Godly character is defined by how you respond to the mundane parts of life. If the true test of character was found in how you act at church then most of us would be canonized saints. We smile and shake hands with the people in the seats around us, but how do you treat your spouse when nobody sees you? How do you talk about your boss in the break room at work? Character is won or lost in these trenches.
In Colossians chapter 3, the Apostle Paul gives us some incredible insight into the hidden areas of life and how the Lord views those things. Paul begins in verses 16 and 17, “Let the Word of Christ dwell in you richly… whatsoever you do in WORD OR DEED, do all in the Name of the Lord Jesus…” Everything that Paul is about to list is to be done with respect to the Name of Jesus. Remember it can be what you SAY or HOW YOU ACT.
Verse 18 begins Paul’s list of deeds that reveal just how richly the Word of Christ dwells in you. It says, “Wives submit yourselves unto your own husbands as it is fit in the Lord.” Verse 19 continues, “Husbands love your wives and be not bitter against them.” The Word of Christ dwelling in you richly produces submission and love within a marriage.
Verse 22 says, “Servants obey in all things your earthly masters.” Paul is now describing the work relationship. Our earthly masters would include our boss at work.
Verse 23 sums it all up. “And whatsoever you do, do it heartily (with character) as to the Lord and not unto men.” This is the great revelation to your personal life: When you are speaking to your spouse or boss you are speaking to a Jesus representative. God will legally have the right to view our treatment of such relationships as the treatment we bestowed upon Him. If your words are unfaithful to your spouse then they are unfaithful to the Lord. If you mock your boss then you are mocking Christ.
Godly character will manage these relationships well out of respect for the Savior. The right character is the key to the unsearchable riches of Christ Jesus.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
Family Church Jamestown is a non-denominational church located in Chautauqua County in Jamestown between Lakewood and Busti NY. The senior pastor of Family Church is Pastor Tim Stahlman a native to the Jamestown, NY area.
