Introduction

 

The Vital Role of Character in Our Christian Walk

The importance of character in our Christian journey cannot be overstated. God’s ultimate goal for His children is to shape us into the image of Christ (Romans 8:29)

Key Idea:

Your character determines your relevance and impact on the world around you. It is what makes you stand out among family, friends, colleagues, and even strangers.

Let’s think of it this way:

•  A tree is recognized by its fruit. Similarly, a believer is identified by their character (Matthew 7:20).
•  Why are people drawn to figures like Pastor Enoch Adeboye or Kenneth Copeland? Their godly character speaks louder than their words or charisma.

TYPES OF BELIEVERS

Believers fall into two categories:

1. Hearers Only:

• They listen but fail to practice what they hear.
• Example: Like a builder who builds on sand (Matthew 7:26).

2. Hearers and Doers:

• These believers actively live out what they learn.
• Example: Their lives reflect God’s Word like a lamp shining brightly (Matthew 5:16).

 

WHAT IS CHARACTER?

Definition:

Character refers to the inner qualities that define a person’s behavior and actions. It can be:

• Good: Reflecting godly values.
• Bad: Opposing those values.

 

COMPONENTS OF CHARACTER

1. THOUGHTS

• Proverbs 23:7 reminds us, “As a man thinks in his heart, so is he.”
• Our thoughts form the foundation of our character.

2. IMAGINATIONS

• Imagination shapes how we perceive the world and act.
• Genesis 13:14-18 encourages productive imagination.

3. FEELINGS

• Feelings are temporary and unreliable.
• Instead of following feelings, Christians should focus on actions aligned with God’s Word.

4. ATTITUDES

• Proverbs 20:11 says, “Even a child is known by his deeds.”
• Attitudes shape behavior.

Reflection: What is your dominant attitude, and how does it reflect Christ?

5. ACTIONS

• Actions are the visible fruits of character.
• Galatians 6:7: “Whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.”

 

WHAT IS CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT?

Definition:

Character development is the intentional building of godly virtues through the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23).

 

Practical Steps:

1. Study the Word: Know God’s standards for character.
2. Prayer: Ask God for help in areas where you struggle.
3. Accountability: Surround yourself with believers who model godly character

 

Christian character is the foundation of a meaningful and impactful life. As we develop godly virtues, we become living reflections of Christ, glorifying God in all we do.

 

What will you do this week to strengthen your Christian character?

 

 

 THE NECESSITY OF CHRISTIAN CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT

 

Christian character development is not optional; it is essential for living a victorious and impactful life. God calls us to grow into the image of Christ and to be living examples of His love and truth to the world. This lesson will highlight why character development is necessary and explore its origins.

 

PART ONE: WHY CHRISTIAN CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT IS NECESSARY

1. To Avoid Self-Deception

2. To Be the Light of the World

3. To Grow and Reflect God’s Image

4. To Be Living Letters for the World to Read

5. To Access God’s Blessings

6. To Experience the Flow of God’s Power

7. To Fulfill the Great Commission

 

PART TWO: ORIGIN OF GODLY AND UNGODLY CHARACTER

 

Godly Character

• Origin: God is the source of all good (James 1:17).

 

Ungodly Character

• Origin: Satan’s fall from grace (Ezekiel 28:11-19, Isaiah 14:12-19).

 

PART THREE: MOTIVE – THE TEST OF TRUE CHARACTER

 

Memory Verse: “The Lord weighs the motives.” (Proverbs 16:2)

 

Key Lessons on Motive

1. Cain and Abel 

• Abel’s offering was accepted because of his pure motive; Cain’s was rejected due to wrong intentions.

2. King Amaziah 

• Amaziah did right outwardly but with a heart that was not perfect, rendering his actions meaningless.

3. God Accepts Righteous Motives 

• God honors those who act out of fear of Him and righteousness.

 

Guarantees for a Godly Motive

1. Pure Thoughts: Think on what is true, noble, and pure.
2. Discernment: Test your actions to ensure they align with God’s Word.
3. Inner Peace: Pure motives bring peace to the heart.
4. Scriptural Guidance: Let the Word of God shape your decisions.
5. Right Influences: Surround yourself with godly people, media, and environments.

 

CONCLUSION

 

Christian character development is vital for avoiding deception, fulfilling God’s purpose, and being effective witnesses to the world. Let your motives be pure, your actions aligned with God’s Word, and your life a reflection of Christ’s light.

 

  The Origin of Godly and Ungodly Character

1. The Origin of Godly Character

 

God is the Source: God is the origin of all good things, including godly character. 
Perfect Gifts: Every good and perfect gift comes from God.
Image of God: As Christians, we are created in God's image and should reflect His character in our lives.

2. The Origin of Ungodly Character

Lucifer's Fall: The first origin of ungodly character came when Lucifer, filled with pride, sought to dethrone God (Isaiah 14:12-19, Ezekiel 28:11-19). 
Satan's Agenda: Since his fall, Satan has sought to draw others into ungodly behavior and pride.

3. The Acid Test of True Character: The Motive of the Heart** 

Right Motive: The true test of godly character is the **motive** behind our actions. 
Cain vs. Abel ) Abel’s offering was accepted because his heart and motive were right. Cain's was not, because of anger and pride. 
King Amaziah : Amaziah did what was right, but his heart wasn't fully devoted to God. His actions were not accepted.

4. How to Ensure a Godly Motive

To have a godly character and a right motive, you need: 
1. Pure Thoughts
   - Focus on what is true, pure, lovely, and good. 
2. Test Your Actions
   - Make sure your actions align with God’s will before proceeding. 
3. Peace of Heart
   - A right motive brings inner peace. 
4. Guide by the Word of God
   - Use Scripture to direct your actions and thoughts. 
5. Right Influences
   - Surround yourself with the right company, information, and environment to nurture godly motives.

UNGODLY CHARACTER QUALITIES TO ABHOR

 

INTRODUCTION

 

Ungodly character traits are harmful to our relationship with God, others, and even ourselves. As Christians, we are called to reflect Christ’s nature and reject sinful behaviors. In this lesson, we’ll explore key ungodly qualities, their effects, and practical ways to overcome them.

 

PART ONE: UNGODLY CHARACTER QUALITIES

 

1. Dishonesty

 

Definition: Dishonesty involves lying, deceit, and insincerity.

 

2. Slandering

 

Definition: Making false or malicious statements to damage someone’s reputation.

 

3. Deceit

 

Definition: Presenting falsehood as truth to mislead others.

 

4. Cheating

 

Definition: Taking what doesn’t belong to you, whether openly or subtly.

 

 

5. Lust and Impurities

 

Definition: Lustful thoughts and actions lead to impurity, beginning in the heart.

 

6. Pride

 

Definition: Pride is an overestimation of self that disregards others and God.

 

Biblical Examples:

• King Nebuchadnezzar 
• King Herod 
• The rich fool 

 

7. Covetousness

 

Definition: An unlawful desire for what belongs to others.

 

Biblical Examples:

• Achan’s greed
•  Gehazi’s covetous

 

 

1. Self-Examination

• Psalm 139:23-24: Ask God to search your heart and reveal areas to change.

2. Renewing the Mind

• Romans 12:2: Transform your thoughts by meditating on God’s Word.

3. Accountability

• Partner with a trusted Christian friend or mentor to help you grow.

4. Prayer and the Holy Spirit

• Galatians 5:16: Walk by the Spirit to overcome the desires of the flesh.

5. Avoid Triggers

• Remove yourself from environments or influences that encourage ungodly behavior.

 

 

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