The Essence of Character in the Christian Life

Consistency Matters

The Essence of Character in the Christian Life

Consistency Matters

In the quest for spiritual maturity, the appraisal of character holds considerable weight. Character, distinct from reputation, is the sum of moral and ethical qualities that defines an individual, particularly in solitude when the audience is the Almighty alone.

Scripture offers ample guidance on the significance of character, often contrasting the virtues of a godly character with the consequences of moral failings. In the privacy of one's home, away from the watchful eyes of society, the authenticity of one's faith is truly tested. The Book of Matthew presents a caution against hypocrisy, urging believers to practice righteousness not to be seen by others but to please the Father who is unseen (Matthew 6:1). It is a poignant reminder that the merit of one's deeds lies not in their visibility to others but in their sincerity before God.

The wisdom literature of the Bible, particularly the Book of Proverbs, is replete with exhortations to cultivate a character that is consistent and upright. Proverbs 10:9 states, "He that walketh uprightly walketh surely: but he that perverteth his ways shall be known." Here lies a truth that echoes through time: integrity is the bedrock of a secure life, and though one may deceive others for a time, the truth of one's ways will eventually surface.

Paul the Apostle speaks to the early church with clarity on the matter of character in his epistle to the Ephesians. He encourages believers to put off the old self, which is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of their minds (Ephesians 4:22-23). It is a call to transformative living that aligns one's private self with the new identity found in Christ.

Moreover, the pursuit of character is not merely about avoiding wrongdoing but about cultivating the fruit of the Spirit, as elucidated in the Book of Galatians. The fruit—love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23)—is not for public display alone but is to permeate every aspect of a believer's life, both public and private.

In the solitude of one's existence, away from the accolades and criticisms of the world, character is both formed and revealed. The Psalmist exemplifies this personal introspection and commitment to godliness when he resolves, "I will behave myself wisely in a perfect way... I will walk within my house with a perfect heart" (Psalms 101:2). It is within the four walls of the home that one's dedication to walking in wisdom and integrity is truly manifest.

The Epistle of James offers a practical litmus test for the believer's character, challenging individuals to be doers of the word, and not hearers only, thereby deceiving their own selves (James 1:22). It is in the doing, often in moments unseen, that the veracity of one's faith is authenticated.

The biblical narrative places significant emphasis on the congruency between one's public life and private conduct. For the believer, the unobserved moments are the crucible in which character is both tested and fortified. The call to a consistent, upright character transcends the bounds of time and culture, remaining ever relevant as the hallmark of a life truly anchored in Christ.