Character is physical expression of the values in a person’s mind. Values are principles or standards of character. This means our values shape our character and our values are influenced by the deep-rooted things in our mind.
The one who believes in Jesus Christ is continually transformed by washing through the water of the word and renewal by Holy Spirit to become more like Christ in nature and Character. The Holy Spirit enables the believer to understand the truth of the word of God and guides the believer to walk in this truth, which becomes deep-rooted in the mind of a believer, thus shaping his/her values. The physically evidence of this this transformation is godly character. Christ-like character is evidence of transformative work of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer.
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control…” (Galatians 5:22-23)
Simon Peter, was one of the disciples who had experienced life with Jesus Christ in bodily form while He was on earth. Out of his experiences, Peter says God has given us everything we need to live a godly life and participate in the Divine nature. Nevertheless, Peter advises us that besides our faith in God, we should make every effort to nurture and grow in godly character. He further says faith in Jesus Christ coupled with character will prevent us from being ineffective and unproductive; enable us confirm our calling and election; enable us not to stumble and receive eternal life through Jesus Christ. (2 Peter 1:3-11).Peter in his words of advice highlights qualities which are similar to the fruits of the Holy Spirit.
Like apostle Peter said, God has given us everything to live a godly life, including the Holy Spirit who is here to help us nurture and manifest godly Character. Nonetheless, following Apostle Peter’s advice, we need to make every effort (2 Peter 1:5), meaning we have to be intentional about partnering with the Holy Spirit to nurture and manifest virtuous character. For instance, if you find yourself always quarreling with people, you need to pray for the Holy Spirit to help you be more gentle and self-controlled. While the Holy Spirit is doing the transformative work in you, you can take advantage of your environment to start practicing gentleness by deciding to be more silent when annoyed; avoid quarrels; apologize quickly etc.
The evidence of a Christian who is born again is the Character which is increasingly being transformed through the Holy Spirit to resemble the character of Jesus Christ. This character can be nurtured with constant meditation on the word of God, through the help and guidance of the Holy Spirit and with intentional efforts. (2 Peter 1:3-11).
It is the Holy Spirit that empowers us to live Godly lives as He helps us in our weaknesses (Romans 8:26). On our own we will always fall. I urge you this day to make the Holy Spirit your companion as you closely follow our posts and write ups this month.
First of all, if it is you desire to commit your life to God and make the Holy Spirit your companion, please sincerely say this prayer:
Lord God, You are a great and loving father. Lord, I acknowledge my sins and wrong doings. I come to you this day to cleanse me of my sin and make me whole. I believe in Jesus Christ who died on the cross for my sins and I commit my life to You this day. Take my heart, cleanse me and consecrate me and use me for your glory. Thank you Lord for saving me. Through the name of Jesus Christ my Lord and Savior, Amen.
If you genuinely made this prayer, believe God has heard you and you are welcomed to the family of believers. We encourage you to grow in faith by studying and meditating on the word of God, making prayer, praise and thanksgiving a lifestyle. Strive to flee evil and bad habits, fellowship with other believers to grow in knowledge of the word of God and seek spiritual mentorship. If you need help, please feel free to contact us in the comment section or send an email to arisesisterministeries@gmail.com
Dear sisters in the Lord Jesus Christ,
I daily thank you for all your powerful and encouraging messages which strengthen us in our walk with the Lord
May the Lord make this Christian organisation grow more and more.
Be blessed in the name of the Lord Jesus,
Amen
Amen. We thank God
Amen. Thanks for the encouraging words. May God be praised!