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GOTS - Integrity and Character in Spiritual Life

Feb 6, 2025

Wednesday Night Bible Study: Integrity vs Character

Opening Prayer

  • Thankfulness for the opportunity to minister.
  • Prayer for revelation and guidance.

Introduction

  • Focus on the topic of character, specifically integrity vs character.
  • Reference to last week's discussion on godly character and the fruit of the Spirit.

Definitions and Distinctions

Integrity

  • Adherence to a code of conduct, particularly the principles of God's Word and grace.
  • Example: 1 Kings 9:4, David walking in integrity of heart and uprightness.

Character

  • Doing what is right because it is right.
  • Character is action-oriented and influences destiny.
  • It's a ceiling you can't surpass without changing habits.

Comparing Integrity and Character

  • Integrity: Recognizing wrong behavior and refusing to join it.
  • Character: Taking action against wrong behavior.
  • Integrity is about adherence; character is about doing.

Biblical References and Examples

  • Proverbs 10:9 and 28:6: Walking in integrity leads to security.
  • Genesis 20: Story of Abimelech whose integrity saved him from sinning against God.
  • Daniel 1:8: Daniel's decision demonstrating character.

The Anatomy of Life and Character Development

  1. Exposure: Influences thinking.
  2. Thinking: Determines emotions.
  3. Emotions: Influence decisions.
  4. Decisions: Lead to actions.
  5. Actions: Create habits.
  6. Habits: Form character.
  7. Character: Determines destiny.

Ways to Develop Character

  1. Controlling Thoughts: Philippians 4:8 - Think on things that are true, honest, just, pure, lovely, and of good report.
  2. Practicing Christian Virtues: 2 Peter 1:5-6 - Faith, moral excellence, knowledge, self-control, endurance, godliness.
  3. Guarding Your Heart: Proverbs 4:23 - Guard your heart to determine life's course.
  4. Keeping Good Company: 1 Corinthians 15:33 - Bad company corrupts good character.

Final Thoughts

  • Character involves the consistent manifestation of Jesus in our lives.
  • Encourage developing a strong character by aligning actions with integrity.

Conclusion and Call to Action

  • Prayer for understanding of integrity and character.
  • Invitation to accept Jesus as Savior.
  • Instructions for giving.

Closing Remarks

  • Encouragement for upcoming events and spiritual wellness.
  • Reminder of continued virtual gatherings and future plans to meet in person.

Note: The focus of this study is the distinction between integrity and character, emphasizing the importance of action in character development and the influence of integrity in guiding one's moral compass.

Full transcript