Why does character matter? - Character - TouchPoints

Ezekiel 18:5-9“Suppose a certain man is righteous and does what is just and right. . . . He does not commit adultery. . . . He is a merciful creditor. . . . He does not rob the poor but instead gives food to the hungry and provides clothes for the needy. . . . [He] is honest and fair when judging others, and faithfully obeys my decrees and regulations. Anyone who does these things is just and will surely live, says the Sovereign Lord.”

People often argue that their personal lives do not really matter so long as they perform well in their public work. God, however, does not make a distinction between your public and private lives. Justice, righteousness, integrity, mercy, honesty, fairness, and faithfulness are essential traits of a godly person’s character because they reflect who a person really is. Such traits also demonstrate an understanding of what is truly important in life—loving, honoring, and respecting God and others.

1 Corinthians 4:5So don’t make judgments about anyone ahead of time—before the Lord returns. For he will bring our darkest secrets to light and will reveal our private motives. Then God will give to each one whatever praise is due.

Sometimes you will be tempted to believe you are exempt from the standards to which all others are subjected. Leaders who feel this way often abuse their privileges as leader. But you must remember that whatever is hidden will one day be revealed.

1 Thessalonians 2:4-12Our purpose is to please God, not people. . . . As for human praise, we have never sought it from you or anyone else. . . . We were devout and honest and faultless toward all of you believers. . . . And urged you to live your lives in a way that God would consider worthy.

Character gives credibility. Your personal character will either verify or nullify your life’s work. Paul models how a life lived to please God honors others, too.

2 Corinthians 8:21We are careful to be honorable before the Lord, but we also want everyone else to see that we are honorable.

Your character influences how others respond to Christianity. If you say you are a Christian, will they want to be like you?