Character: A Spirit of Unity

The Christian character will demonstrate a respect for others that leads to unity!  Respect and unity go hand in hand but they make rare appearances in our world today.  Most of us, even Christians, are so focused on getting our viewpoint across that it is our individuality people see--not the character of Christ.  Our Lord is always respectful: even when we 'despise and reject' Him, He recognizes our individual will and ways. Yet, the Father never stops loving.  He never lowers Himself to respond in kind to our actions.  He remains focused on His glorious purpose: that 'we might know that He is God.'  The character founded and built on Christ will be motivated by that same purpose.  With the goal of revealing God's glory, the Christian character draws people to God and together!

The inner being of each human being is revealed in either individuality or personality.  Individuality is the mark of a natural man; it separates us from others and seeks to distinguish the uniqueness of a person.  Personality is no less unique but it is the mark of the spiritual man; it is infused with the glorious respectfulness of our Lord.  The Christian character is secure in Christ and not driven by the need to be set apart and glorified. 

Self-vindication, self-glory--self-righteousness--is an anathema to the Christian character.  The glory of the Christian is present in the character of Christ!  When we choose to sacrifice our individuality, our personality will bring the glory of Christ to the world around us!  We receive the gift of Jesus for the purpose that others will know Him; you have been created uniquely for touching the lives around you--let His beauty flow through!

Merry Christmas to all of you!  Enjoy the gift of Jesus and may His glory light your world!

Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment. 1 Corinthians 1:10