THE IMPORTANCE OF CHARACTER

THE IMPORTANCE OF CHARACTER

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Proverbs 22:1

Key Verse: “A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold.” (Proverbs 22:1)

Supporting Texts: Proverbs 11:3, Matthew 5:16, Titus 2:7-8, Galatians 5:22-23

Description: Character is the foundation of a Christian’s witness and the measure of a life that honours God.

INTRODUCTION:
Character is the invisible force that determines visible actions. In a world where skill and charisma are often celebrated above integrity, the Bible calls believers to pursue godly character as the highest priority. True character is not what we display when people are watching but who we are when no one else is looking.

The importance of character cannot be overstated. It influences relationships, leadership, and our testimony before God and men. A believer without character undermines the message of the gospel they proclaim. The Scriptures reveal that a good name is more valuable than material wealth because character outlives accomplishments or possessions.

In today’s generation, where compromise is common, Christians are called to be living epistles, representing Christ through honesty, humility, and righteousness. When our character reflects Jesus, the world sees God’s glory in us, and our lives become instruments of transformation.

1. CHARACTER IS THE FOUNDATION OF TRUST
Character builds the trust necessary for meaningful relationships and lasting impact. Without trust, influence collapses.

a) Integrity is non-negotiable (Proverbs 11:3): Integrity guides the upright and preserves their paths, while the unfaithful are destroyed by duplicity.

b) Honesty fosters confidence (Ephesians 4:25): Speaking truthfully builds confidence in relationships and ensures credibility.

c) Reliability creates stability (Matthew 5:37): Let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes’ and your ‘No’ be ‘No’; anything beyond this erodes trust.

d) Faithfulness earns respect (Luke 16:10): Faithfulness in small things proves worthiness for greater responsibilities.

Biblical Example: Joseph’s integrity in Potiphar’s house earned him trust, even when falsely accused, and prepared him for leadership (Genesis 39:6-12).

2. CHARACTER REFLECTS CHRIST TO THE WORLD
Our character is the primary evidence that Christ lives within us. It is the light by which the world judges our faith.

a) Good works glorify God (Matthew 5:16): When people see your upright conduct, they glorify your Father in heaven.

b) The fruit of the Spirit produces godly character (Galatians 5:22-23): Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, and self-control are signs of Christ’s presence.

c) Hypocrisy discredits the gospel (Romans 2:23-24): Claiming God’s name but living contrary to His Word dishonours Him before unbelievers.

d) Consistency shows authenticity (Titus 2:7-8): Showing integrity in teaching and conduct silences critics.

Biblical Example: Daniel’s unwavering character, even in Babylon, displayed God’s glory to kings and nations (Daniel 6:3-5).

3. CHARACTER DETERMINES DESTINY
A man’s gift may open doors, but only character can keep them open. Destiny is sustained by godly virtues.

a) Character sustains promotion (Proverbs 4:23): Guard your heart diligently, for it determines the course of your life.

b) Lack of character destroys potential (Judges 16:20-21): Samson’s compromise cost him his strength and purpose.

c) Patience shapes lasting success (James 1:4): Let patience finish its work, producing maturity and completeness.

d) Humility positions you for greatness (James 4:6-7): God lifts the humble but resists the proud.

Biblical Example: David’s integrity and humility prepared him for kingship long before the crown was placed on his head (1 Samuel 24:4-7).

4. CHARACTER ATTRACTS DIVINE FAVOUR AND HUMAN HONOUR
God honours those who uphold righteousness, and people are drawn to those with upright character.

a) God rewards the righteous (Psalm 84:11): The Lord withholds no good thing from those who walk uprightly.

b) Good reputation opens doors (Proverbs 22:1): A good name brings opportunities that money cannot buy.

c) Uprightness invites divine protection (Psalm 5:12): God surrounds the righteous with favour like a shield.

d) Character outlives achievements (Hebrews 11:4): Like Abel, a life of integrity speaks even after death.

Biblical Example: Ruth’s noble character attracted Boaz’s favour and positioned her in the lineage of Jesus (Ruth 3:10-11).

CONCLUSION:
Character is not built in a day but through daily choices to align our hearts and actions with God’s Word. Skill, talent, and charisma may bring temporary applause, but only character ensures lasting impact.

As believers, we must cultivate godly character through prayer, obedience, and submission to the Holy Spirit. When our lives reflect Christ’s nature, we not only secure God’s blessings but also leave a legacy that inspires generations.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, build in me a character that glorifies Your name.
2. Father, help me to be trustworthy and faithful in all my dealings.
3. Lord, deliver me from every weakness that threatens my integrity.
4. Father, teach me to value a good name above earthly riches.
5. Lord, fill my life with the fruit of the Spirit that reflects Your nature.
6. Father, grant me humility to walk uprightly before You and men.
7. Lord, preserve my destiny from destruction caused by compromise.
8. Father, let my life attract divine favour and human honour.
9. Lord, strengthen me to remain consistent in righteousness.
10. Father, make me a shining example of Christlike character in my generation.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:
1. You shall be known for integrity, and your name shall carry honour and favour.
2. Every trap designed to compromise your character is broken in Jesus’ name.
3. You will reflect Christ in every area of your life, drawing others to God.
4. Your destiny will not be cut short by moral failure or compromise.
5. Divine favour shall follow you because of your uprightness and obedience.
6. The fruit of the Spirit will flourish in you, transforming every weakness into strength.
7. You shall stand firm under pressure, and your testimony will remain pure.
8. Opportunities will open to you because of your good name and reputation.
9. Your character will outlive your achievements, leaving a lasting legacy.
10. You will walk in righteousness, shining as a light in a dark world, to the glory of God.