Character, A Lasting Foundation

Good Morning!! The decisions we make, and the accomplishments we celebrate, tell our children, our friends and everyone around us what we believe matters most. So, I guess we need to ask ourselves, "What am I building with? Whose words am I listening to as I lay a foundation for my life?" The world will tell us to build our foundation with the materials of power, performance and prestige. Television commercials communicate that academics, athletics and appearance pave the way to success. But Jesus says the opposite. He describes a successful life as one built on the foundation of His word. He knows that academics, athletics and appearance will take us places,...but only character will keep us there. All throughout scripture we find Jesus talking about the condition and character of our heart,...because that is what matters most.

Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.—Romans 12:2 (NIV)

The world looks at what we do,...but God looks at who we are. He knows when we follow His ways and allow His word to shape us from the inside out, our character will be strengthened and our foundation made firm. This is an important truth to apply in our own lives, and also to pass on, because we're not just building our own foundation, we are laying groundwork for others to build on as well. We need to take time to tell others what matters most to God,...and then live out the truths of His word. You have eyes set on your construction site, so be careful what you build with, it will determine how your story ends! Character is what counts in building a life that will last. .

We are all building something, brick-by-brick with the choices we make,...we construct a life that reflects what is most important to us.

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Holy Spirit, help us to build a foundation that will last. We all want to leave a legacy worth living. Teach us the value of God's Word, and show us ways we can apply it in our every day lives. The world's measuring stick tempts us away from the truest measure of success: to have a heart that reflects Christ's character. Help us to hear His words, and apply what we hear,...and laying a lasting foundation for not only our lives, but all those that are watching us! Amen.

"Things come apart so easily when they have been held together with lies."