What does stress reveal about us? Often we
show our true character when we are in the pressure cooker of life--hurried, worried, and buried under stress--and it isn't always a flattering picture.
Character is
not just something we put into our lives; it is what comes out of our lives
(and often our mouths) in times of trial. It goes beyond a system of values and
virtues that we learn from our parents, teachers or even at church.
All we do
and say in life stems from our inner character. (A scary thought at times.) Character
is not just having integrity or just being honest or just doing the right
thing. Good Christian character springs from a growing relationship with Jesus
in which we allow Him to work in our lives.
Character is
often cultivated during stress-filled times--times of waiting, confusion, loss,
or pain. Intentionally setting aside the
time to meditate, pray, and reflect during these challenges will help us
determine the right choices and attitudes to take.
Aligning our
lives with Jesus produces behaviors that are Christ-like. When we are connected to the Vine, (Jesus), through
prayer, Bible reading, and meditation, we produce the spiritual fruit mentioned
in Galatians 5:22-23:
"But
the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness,
faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.”
And that's good character no matter how stressful the situation.
Blessings!
Pam©2013 Pamela D. Williams
