A recent devotional directed my thoughts in a path that comes about quite readily, but like many things, the topic lingers as long as a few breaths and the first distraction. But not this time. It's a strange phenomenon to me how sometimes phraseology can impact receptivity so immensely, even when the content is 'of old.' Anyway, this devotional brought back a message representing a common theme in the life of a Christian, but one that truly creates quite the stumbling block for many - character. Here is excerpt...

"My vision of God is dependent upon the condition of my character. My character determines whether or not truth can even be revealed to me... there must be something in my character that conforms to the likeness of God. Until I am born again and really begin to see the kingdom of God, I only see from the perspective of my own biases."

This led me to the following questions.

1. How is my character?

2. How is my character conforming to the likeness of God?

3. How is my character conforming to the likeness of God and how is this affecting my pursuit of knowing more about the character of Christ?

4. In what ways do I allow society to affect, or even build, my character?

5. Does my 'character' look the same to all whom I meet or am I putting out there several "characters" to fit in, find approval, etc.?

Character is truly something that can be so difficult, but I cling Romans 5 as it speaks to the perseverance that builds character and in that we may have hope. What a wonderful notion. That in our pursuing of our Savior, we are comforted by the hope that our home awaits our arrival. To become more Christ-like, we develop a greater understanding of our Sovereign Lord. We more fully understand the depth of meaning in HIS mercy, and grace... and we may more fully accept and bask in the greatness of HIS love. We may be enamored by the one true love...