Our experiences mark us. HOW we ‘handle’ these experiences indelibly determines our character. Both can be changed, reversed, built upon, and/or developed. I always find it fascinating how the same experience can be viewed in so many different ways dependent upon our individual history. And I believe that what we do with the learnings from our history really forms us, our character. The old adage that if we don’t learn from our experiences that we are ‘doomed’ to repeat them is also applicable personally.
How important is your character to you? And is there a continuity between how you view yourself and what others would say? It really doesn’t matter if your goal is to be kind (definitely a character trait) if your behavior isn’t viewed as kind by others. Then again… almost all of us specially define words so we need to know if we are speaking the same language. However, bottom line – your character as seen through other’s eyes is who you are perceived to be.
Can any of this be changed? Of course. That’s why one of my favorite phrases has been – ‘God’s not done with me yet… I’m a work in progress.’ And I really don’t want it to be seen as a cop out or a deflection. In my world of definitions, there is always the possibility for change – perhaps not of circumstances but we can always change/alter out words, our attitudes, us. If change isn’t possible then we are all doomed because it was a change in our allegiance – accepting Jesus as our Lord – that began this journey.
Becoming. Growing. Whatever word you choose to use is always possible – we can always become our best. If it weren’t possible then why would God send His only Son to be our savior, to be our example, to lead us into all truth? Jesus came so we might live an abundant life (John 10:10) – full of all those thoughts, behaviors, mindsets that bring us to light rather than keeping us in the darkness. And He never intended for us to do this alone, plus this comes with a promise (John 15:1-8).
“I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in Me
that does not bear fruit He takes away, and every branch that bears
fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit. … Abide in Me and I in
you… If you abide in Me and My words abide in you, you will ask what
you desire and it shall be done for you. By this My Father is glorified
that you bear much fruit…”
This state is never instantaneous, which as why I always consider myself a work in progress. There are a number of promises given when we act according to His word. Becoming is a process… one that will take your entire life. But the price is more than worth it.
