Thoughts for Thursday

Character
by guest blogger Emily Farmer

What are you made of? What do you value? Have you ever experienced a life journey that just totally tested your character. I, not too long ago, did. I shared some of it with you in a past post. As I look back now, I can thank God that I handled the situation very well. I knew he was in control and would take care of my family. I had no doubts that we would be okay. I did however doubt and question "why" is this happening to my family. My husband and I held our heads high and after awhile we just laughed. And said,"what next." I hope our boys were watching and taking note and will one day be able to act with the same character that my husband and I had during our rough time.

If you think about it that's what life is really about. Teaching your children and others around you to have the character that God portrays. What does that look like? For me it looks like this... You help a stranger just to show kindness. You serve at church or in the community with a joyful heart. You can tell another person "I love you" and really mean it. When you say I am here for you no matter what, and you really are there. This past weekend our pastor taught a message on integrity and doing what you say. He used the verse from Prov.20:6 "Many will say they are loyal friends,but who can find one who is truly reliable?" This tells us to make our talk match our walk or let your words mean something. He also gave the reference in Prov.2:7 "He grants a treasure of common sense to the honest. He is a shield to those who walk with integrity." When I read that I thought to myself I just experienced God being our shield. The last verse my pastor gave was Prov. 10:9 "People with integrity walk safely, but those who follow crooked paths will slip and fall." Integrity is such a big word but, so worth having it listed under your character.

As I told my son tonight when life is tough stand up and face it head on and believe God is in control and he will take care of the situation. He gives us second chances and do overs. Be Thankful! 1 Cor. 16:13 says it best " Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong."

Have Faith, Be Strong and know God will handle the rest.