Thursday, January 17

THURSDAY, JANUARY 17, 2019

"LORD, who may dwell in your sacred tent?

    Who may live on your holy mountain?

The one whose walk is blameless,

    who does what is righteous,

    who speaks the truth from their heart;

whose tongue utters no slander,

    who does no wrong to a neighbor,

    and casts no slur on others;

who despises a vile person

    but honors those who fear the Lord;

who keeps an oath even when it hurts,

    and does not change their mind

who lends money to the poor without interest;

    who does not accept a bribe against the innocent.

Whoever does these things

    will never be shaken." (Psalm 15)

Today's psalm speaks directly about character, specifically the character of one who seeks God and may approach Him. Despite clear examples of sin, David's longing for God's presence established him as a man after God's own heart and a great example for us in passionate seeking after God.

Importantly, this passion for seeking God goes beyond the "sacred tent" (in modern terms, "at church" or "in small group"). It manifests itself in a changed life that reflects God's priorities: placing God as a priority; honoring God, the truth, and others with our words and actions; holding fast to our promises; and treating people with greater respect than money.

These elements of character lead to this security: "Whoever does these things/ will never be shaken." (15:5) Given the volatility of the world, its challenges, and our feelings, how could David make this assertion? The answer lies in God's faithfulness and character: that, in committing to this honorable life, God promises to protect His servant from shame or abandonment. As Jesus explained, even amid persecution, this promise would remain secure: "In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." The promise rests in God, not our circumstances.

Does character matter today? While the media might suggest otherwise, character absolutely matters today. Character defines "how" we live, which God esteems over "what" we accomplish. The U.S. Military Academy touts this phrase: "Choosing the harder right over the easier wrong." Character may costs us in the short run, but the long-term effects lead to transformation and blessing God and others. A transformed character points to God and proclaims: "He can redeem anyone and everyone. How about you?"

Would you like to grow in character? You're on the right path by studying His Word, which creates the basis for understanding character and its implications. Have you found mentors whose character you would like to emulate?

Lord God, we come before You today and desire to grow in character. Show us where we may grow and lead us to Your Word and to mentors. Build in us the love and compassion to bless others and the wisdom to know how. Help us to avoid pettiness so that we may esteem what You esteem. In Jesus's mighty Name, amen.