Character: The Ultimate Game-Changer

A man’s character is his fate, a timeless truth echoed by Heraclitus and Thomas Jefferson. Yet, many of us self-sabotage by seeking spiritual solutions for character-deficit issues, neglecting the very foundation of our lives. Our destiny is not predetermined, but shaped by our character, which can change.

As a clergyman, I’ve watched people prioritize spirituality over building character and relationships, neglecting the very foundation of their lives. But character is not just about appearances or spiritual eloquence; it’s about behavior and treatment of others.

The Great Wall of China, a marvel of engineering, was built to keep enemies out, but the Chinese forgot to build the character of the wall-guards, and their enemies bribed their way in. This ancient mistake teaches us that a fortified character is the best defense.

Prayer is important but character is also crucial. Treat people with respect, courtesy, and kindness, regardless of their status. God uses people to achieve His plans, and our character triggers the manifestation of His blessings. Don’t trivialize prayers, but don’t neglect character either.

The Chinese realized that the best defense is not a fortified wall but a fortified character. Build relationships, work on your character and attitude, and remember that God always uses man so character is critical. Character is sacrosanct to the future God has planned for you.

In the words of Abigail Van Buren,

The best index to a person’s character is how he treats people who can’t do him any good, and how he treats people who can’t fight back.

Let’s give out the good in us always, just like the people of West Berlin did. Each gives what he has – choose wisely.

Many of us believe that rigid prayer routines can guarantee success and justify our actions. However, no amount of spiritual penance can replace character. As Dutch Sheets aptly put it

Prayer is not a cheque request asking for things from God; it’s a deposit slip – a way of depositing God’s character into our bankrupt souls.

Thomas Macaulay also noted,

The measure of a man’s character is what he would do if he knew he never would be found out.

I firmly believe that a person’s character, not their enemies, is their greatest obstacle to achieving greatness. While prayer is essential, I urge you not to neglect the importance of character. Don’t overemphasize spiritual practices while taking character for granted. Both are crucial for a balanced life.

While we focus on spiritual growth through prayer, we often neglect the importance of character and relationships. Many of us are “heaven” bound but lack earthly relevance. Spiritual eloquence, public prayer, and a holy appearance aren’t enough; it’s our behavior and character that trigger God’s manifestation in our lives. Learn to treat people with courtesy and respect. The Shunammite woman’s hospitality, not just her prayers, opened the door to her miracle. Similarly, our character, not just our prayers, will determine our destiny. Don’t neglect your relationships and character, as many have missed opportunities and insulted their destiny helpers. Treat everyone with respect, courtesy, and kindness, regardless of their status or ability to help you

Prayer is essential, but it’s not everything! Building relationships and developing good character are equally crucial. God works through people, so mind your words and actions. Work on your character and attitude, as it’s vital for the future God has planned for you. A religion without character is a fraud, and living without character is reckless.

As William Shakespeare said, ~ “The fault is not in our stars, but ourselves.”
And Peter Schutz emphasized, ~ “HIRE CHARACTER; TRAIN SKILLS.“

The story of East and West Berlin teaches us that we can choose to give love instead of hate, life instead of death, and build instead of destroy. What do you have inside you? Give out the good in you always.

Remember, “EACH GIVES WHAT HE HAS.” Let’s focus on building character, relationships, and giving out love and life.