CHARACTER Development
For the month of September, Monday Mediations will focus on the topic of CHARACTER. We will explore what it means, how we build it in ourselves, and strengthen it the Corpath way.
Proverbs 2:1-11
Over the past few years binge-watching TV shows has become a “thing”. Popular streaming media apps and platforms make it possible for us to watch an entire series in just a few sittings. The best ones are those that have an interesting storyline, plot, and maybe even a twist that nobody could have expected. They are engaging cause us to escape for a few short hours and are the modern version of reading a good book from cover to cover in just a few short sittings.
One of the best components of any good video series or book is the cast of CHARACTERS. From heroes to villains, and everything in between, a good story always has interesting people that we either identify with or despise. Their character develops over time and the story gives us glimpses into their lives and helps us understand why they are the way they are, and why they do the things they do. Whether fiction or real, we are sometimes compelled to live vicariously through these characters.
Q: Think about the stories that you have enjoyed. What do you remember about the CHARACTERS? Did you identify with any of them?
If you were to look at your life as a story you would see that your character is always developing and is often influenced by the environment around you. Sometimes those influences are imposed on you and others are intentionally led by you. The ways you were raised. The beliefs you have. The things you have learned. The adventures you have taken. The successes and failures. Tragedies and triumphs. The transitions through the various life stages. The choices made and their results. Like some of the best stories you have read, your character is built over time and is always creating your unique identity.
Q: What are some of the life events that have developed your character? Have they helped or hindered you?
Proverbs 2:1-11 gives us some good instruction of how to build an identity of high quality that’s rooted in Godly character development. Take a moment, read the passage, and reflect on it.
We read that developing character starts with seeking wisdom and understanding. In fact, they are more valuable than gold and silver and we are to seek them as though we are looking for buried treasure. We read God’s word as a map to help us find a treasure that is invaluable. It guides us to grow closer to Him and develop a character of integrity along the way.
Q: Thinking about yourself for a minute, would you rather lose your life’s savings and business, or your character and integrity? Why?
There are those around us that are simply products of their life choices and daily influences. Some have taken a passive and reactive approach toward building their character. Their compass is “off”, and their direction is aimless. They may seem successful by worldly standards but, have a no specific destination in mind as they trudge aimlessly through their days.
As a Corpath member, we choose to let Christ-based values develop us (intentionally) over time. We take a proactive approach to building a character that is more valuable than any bank account or business value. Our direction is set by God himself and we know that building a character of Godly integrity will not only bring value to ourselves, but also to all those around us. Our character will become a role model for our families that will be remembered fondly, discussed enthusiastically, and live as a good example for generations. There is nothing more valuable than that.
Q: What will you do today to be more intentional in developing a Christ-led character as you pursue excellence in business, in life, and in spirit?
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank you for bringing me to your word today. I ask your Holy Spirit to walk with me this week. As I seek wisdom and understanding, I ask that you guide my steps in the direction I need to go. And when the path is hard, I pray you give me courage and strength to continue in the way of your leading through faith. Let me develop a Godly character in every step each day and keep me from stumbling over those things I see and those that I may not see. Amen.
Blessings always and all-ways,
Steve Shrout
President
Special Note:
If you enjoyed today’s message, then share it with someone. Also, use this content and questions as a discussion guide in your next Forum Group meeting.
Attached is a printable PDF you can use to help with your meditation and reflection. I encourage you to print it, answer the questions and then keep it in a Corpath binder or folder for future reference and thought. You will receive a new PDF each week with each new Monday Meditation, and over time, your binder will become a book representing your own Corpath journey of BUSINESS thoughts, personal LIFE development and SPIRITUAL growth.
