Genesis 4:7
If you do well, will you not be accepted? And if you do not do well, sin is crouching at the door. Its desire is contrary to you, but you must rule over it.”
Many of today’s universities are indoctrinating the younger generation to become activists. The focus is to become involved in a mission greater than themselves. Usually the aim is to pursue a current left-wing agenda of social justice, diversity, or equity in the name of saving society. The moral dilemma though is the process being taken to achieve their goals.
Instead of respecting the opinion of others, they practice character assassination. Instead of focusing on facts, they allow their violent feelings to attack the messenger. Instead of exercising goodwill and care for those who do not agree, they spew hatred and contempt.
When one’s moral view is without God, fundamental healthy values become distorted. Basic principles which lead to freedom, flourishment, and fulfillment for both sides are destroyed. The self becomes god before others. Somewhere, they have forgotten when one finger points at others, three fingers are pointing back at themselves. Instead of being made aware they are part of the problem, they are taught to blame others. What we witness are individuals lacking self-control. Instead, their natural carnal tendency is to express negative hostility. Life becomes a war zone.
Successful people throughout history have demonstrated the importance of developing moral character. Such character prevents the destruction of self and others. Today as a society, we seem to ignore godly character instead allowing our passions to rule us.
The opening Scripture refers to when Cain and Abel had a disagreement. The one brother ended up killing the other. God intervened and made the above statement. Like Cain and Abel, we all have emotions and feelings which when left unchecked lead to unacceptable outcomes. Relationships are destroyed. Families disband. Countries fight wars. Tribes attack each other. Labor distrusts management.
To create a society where people proactively do good for each other takes effort, self-sacrifice, and self-control. When these qualities are replaced by victimhood, a “me” mentality, and unbridled emotions, the results are responses without habitual moral strength in charge. Children may act in such a way while still young and learning how to live the good life. But when adults respond with emotional, angry outbursts, one questions their maturity level.
Sin destroys relationships. Whether we are speaking about our relationship with Father God, our mate, or our neighbor, when we respond without guardrails in place, the outcome does not build up anyone. Instead we behave as bullies, and no one wants to be friends with bullies accept another bully.
As a Christ-follower, we are assured that his Spirit lives in us – the hope of glory (Col. 1:27). As we defer and allow His Spirit to live in us and through us, we begin to experience life as the new creation. The fruit of His Spirit (Gal. 5:23-23) becomes more active as we remove more of self out of the picture and allow Jesus Christ to have center stage.
One day we will all die and leave our material possessions behind. Yet, there is one item you will take with you into eternity – your character. As God’s Spirit morphs you into the image of Jesus Christ, you will also find changes in your character, attitude, and worldview. Your view begins to reflect the Triune God’s. You begin to view life through HIS eyes. Slowly you learn how to act and behave as HE would in each situation.
Yes, we will fail at times. But HIS grace is sufficient to restore us and keep us moving forward as HIS witness. During these hard times, we cry out for HIS intervention. We find ways to participate with HIM. In return, HE molds our character into HIS image always preparing us for eternity.
When you focus to take part with God in the mission of sharing HIS good news, the byproduct is the development of your character. So next time when you are tempted to stray, you will have character guardrails to keep you from falling into the abyss. You will be in charge of the situation rather than have the situation control you.
Always remember, you are God’s workmanship (Eph 2:10). And HE always makes everything very good.
Rooting For You in Christ!
Dr. Mike
Faith-Integrator, Encourager, Scribbler
Learn & Grow with these eBooks:
- The Adventurous Journey of Transformation in Christ (Now Available)
- Overflowing Prayers Rooted in Jesus Christ v1 & v2
- Dancing With God: Life-Giving Theology Explained
- Great Business Emulates a Good God
- Stay Free…Avoid Worldly Traps
- Simply The Messenger
- Unequally Married
Encourage a Friend…Share Today’s Message!
Radical In Christ 