Character Counts

So far we have learned about the first three "Cs" of soul winning in the last few devotionals.  Today let me share the fourth "C"—character.  1 Corinthians 9:24-27, particularly verse 27, tells us the importance of character in witnessing to others,

Do you not know that those who run in a race all run, but one receives the prize?  Run in such a way that you may obtain it.  And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things.  Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown.  Therefore I run thus:  not with uncertainty.  Thus I fight:  not as one who beats the air.  But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified.

Paul said he was temperate in all things, that he disciplined his body.  He would bring it into subjection, meaning he had problems keeping his body in subjection, just like you and I do.

Every one of us has a propensity toward certain sins.  It is important, though, that we rein in our flesh and that we are temperate in all things because our lifestyle affects our message.

Take just a moment and do the following exercise.  Imagine you are an employer.  If you wanted to hire an efficient, competent, trustworthy employee, would you hire yourself at your present salary?

Or let's say that you were going to have to spend the rest of your life with someone just like you.  Would you look forward to it as a great opportunity and privilege?  Or not?

If your character is out of whack, people are going to have a hard time hearing what you have to say.  Character counts!

~Bayless Conley~