THE IMPORTANCE OF CHARACTER
2 Peter 1:1–11
There is a perpetual joke in my family about when I order my food in restaurants. For several years when placing an order, I have been informed that the item I requested is no longer available. More often than not, I have had to alter my first choice.
There was a time when I might have found this inconvenience frustrating, but now it has become something to promote laughter. I have been to steakhouses without steaks, and I have even encountered lunch specials that are sold out. Additionally, some of my favorite dishes that I have been seeking have been removed from the menu. I have learned that when I order, I need to have a backup plan ready.
These days, there is one area in our culture that has either been depleted or eradicated. This area is character. In days gone by, a person’s character was the most precious thing he or she possessed. Regardless of a person’s socioeconomic standing, if they maintain good character, they are respected.
A godly and genuine character transcends all boundaries and sadly, it has become increasingly difficult to come by today.
God has empowered us to grow in Christlike character. (1–3)
We can either grumble about the shortage of Christlike character in our world, or we as Christians can determine to do something about it. Thankfully, the Scriptures are available to assist us in this needed endeavor. God will never require from us what He does not first make possible with His help.
Peter is an excellent example of this truth. Peter may have begun his adult life as a fisherman, but by the time these words were written, he was a transformed apostle and leader in the growing church. What happened? He learned to depend on Jesus and grow in knowledge of His glory and grace. If any of us are lacking in Christlike character, it means we are neglecting Christ.
Diligence in our growth makes us useful for God’s Kingdom. (4–8)
All those around us desperately need this spiritual growth that we should desire. Peter saw the world he was living in as corrupt, filled with selfish desires and ungodly.
As we grow closer to having Christlike character, we will view sin differently and even more seriously. The challenge is to do so without harboring hatred toward others. Instead, we should hate our sin and pursue a holiness that others can model. By being diligent in living a life of godly character, we can be significantly used in the work of His Kingdom.
God indeed uses imperfect people, but He will never bless or dismiss a sinful lifestyle or behavior.
Christlike character points to our relationship with Christ. (9–11)
Peter calls on the reader to never forget how much Christ has forgiven them. Peter, more than most, understood what it meant to be thankful for the forgiveness provided by Jesus. When we see the great price of the cross of Jesus, we should seek to live for Him. The Christlike character missing in our world is never meant for us to bring attention to ourselves or boast.
Our reason for existing is to point others to Jesus. When it comes to character, make sure it is on your menu, and do not accept any substitutions.
By Bobby McKay
Pastor of New Liberty Baptist Church in Morton, Mississippi
