Today’s Reading, 1 Kings 1-2
Focal Scripture: 1 Kings 1:52 “Then Solomon said, “If he is a man of character, not a single hair of his will fall to the ground, but if evil is found in him, he dies.””
Teaching character is very important, especially in today’s society. It has become obvious that many in the next generation are not being taught how to by godly men and women. They are not being taught what is right and wrong. Instead they are being taught to trust feelings and emotions. They are being lead to look at personal circumstances and desires. However, they should be taught to believe biblical expectations and Godly character.
In today’s reading we see Solomon make a very powerful statement about his brother. He said if he is a man of character he will not die, but if he is evil he will certainly die. This statement puts all the emphasis on who is brother is on the inside not on what he says or how he acts. This matters, because character is revealed in difficult times. It must be taught before. It is ingrained in someone from the beginning especially after someone has a biblical heart change. Solomon is stating if his heart is good he will live if it is not he will die.
Teaching character to our children, youth, and new believers in the Christian faith is important. It must be done daily and it must be done biblically. To do that we must define biblical character. Biblical character is what comes out of our hearts in our speech, actions, intents and deeds. They are interwoven into everything that we do in life. This is why character is so important in who is called to be a preacher/elder of the gospel. A person with bad character will corrupt all who follow him.
Our challenge as believers is to submit our will to the Lord and ask him to reveal any character trait that needs to be fixed. If you struggle with what you speak, submit it to the Lord. If you struggle with your actions submit to the Lord. I know I am making this sound simple when in reality it is difficult. We must do what is says in Philippians and have the character of Christ. We must die to ourselves. We must show so much Godly character it convinces others to become followers of Christ.
Pray today for God to search your heart and show you character flaws. We all have them, the issue is will we submit them to Christ. Or will we make excuses and say that is just the way I am.
The choice is yours and reveals the status of your heart.
Tomorrow, I plan on reading 1 Kings 3-5
