Bro. Eddie Ministries: The Word Gives InstructionSample

There are four virtues that we should aspire to have. One is the virtue of <i>discernment</i>. It speaks of the ability to see which is good or evil. It means to know what helps or causes harm. It means to see which honors or dishonors God. Those who discern well will choose the good, that which helps, or that which honors God. It takes shape in us when we renew the way we think. How we think affects the way we choose to behave. So we must watch what comes to our mind. Saint Paul was right when he said, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good, acceptable and perfect will of God.” (Romans 12:2) The ‘world’ here means the godless system that persists in our time. This system dictates that we choose what will harm others and offend God. Only those minds that God has changed will be able to do the reverse. <i>Courage</i> is also a virtue that we need to have. It means to find strength in God whenever we come face to face with trials. It means to say that we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us. (Philippians 4:13). It also means to have the guts to say no to temptations. Courage settles in our hearts when we live by faith. It makes us triumph. (1 John 5:4). This is the reason Paul urges us to walk by faith and not by sight. (2 Corinthians 5:7). Faith makes us trust that God has already done what we have asked Him to do for us. It makes us trust that God’s help is at hand. (Hebrews 11:1) <i>Temperance</i> is another virtue that we ought to have. It means to have control over our sinful desires for they will harm others and our own self. It may mean to control our anger. (Proverbs 15:1; 14:17; James 1:20). Lest it leaves damages that are hard to mend. It may also mean not to give in to our appetite. (Proverbs 23:2). That is if we want to stay healthy and to look good. But to tone down or control the self is not easy. We need to be under God’s control if we want to have control of self. Temperance cannot be done in the flesh. It is a spiritual thing. That is why it is listed as the fruit of the Spirit. (Galatians 5:23) Temperance is a work of God in us. It is not the fruit of our own effort. But we need to stay in the right spirit or remain subject to Him so that He can tame us. Then and only then we can be temperate in all things. The last virtue that we need to aspire to have is <i>justice</i>. It means to be fair and true in our judgment. But how often do people misjudge? They do it very often, from small to big issues, against small or big people. God calls us to be just. For He has shown us what is good. And He does require us to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with Him. (Micah 6:8) The challenge to have these four virtues in our lives is tough. And tougher than we think it is. Reflections: 1. Why is it difficult to have these virtues? What should you do for these to be developed in you? 2. In what situation do you think you need to show these virtues? Why? It takes time to become a man or woman of virtue.