The Measure of the Character of a Person

What is the measure of the character of a person? Is the measure, the religion they belong or the position they hold in a community or the money and possessions they have in their control? Is character judged by the amount of money one may give to the poor, the good deeds they have done, or recognitions and awards they have received?

The character of a person does not come in a controlled situation, where the person in question has the ability to divert and/or influence those around. Strength of character is shown when an unexpected turn or difficulty occurs and the method one uses to handle that adversity.

We are all human beings, even those who are devout Christians trying to follow and please our Lord. But what happens when a person, even a devout Christian has an unexpected turn in their life?

If we are on the outside, do we berate them for not following God’s ways? Do we make them feel guilty or uneasy, although they know the realization of the situation? What if the unexpected turn cannot be taken back or will have lifelong percussions? Or even involves innocent people? As those sitting in the seat of judgment, do we utilize our position as one of power or one of compassion?

I read about the disciple Peter. Peter followed Jesus for three years, watching Him perform many miracles and teaching the Word of God with authority. Peter loved Him as a brother. Peter told Jesus that he would die for Him, yet when the moment came for Peter to prove his word, he denied Jesus three times. As a reader of this story, should I feel ill towards Peter? Should I say to myself that I would never do such an act if I was with Jesus? Or would I be among the few who could understand the fear and guilt that Peter experienced?

Did Jesus shun him, or lose his love for Peter? No! Jesus forgave him and entrusted him with a most important task; feeding the sheep.

How we handle unexpected turns and difficulty is where the strength of character is found in a person. If we are on the outside looking in, it’s easy to lecture and condemn and talk about the situation to the point of gossip.

What if it involves our immediate family? How do we treat them? A person’s home should be a refuge, a place where a family member is always accepted and love with no conditions. How do we handle these unexpected turns when a family member commits one? Do we think of ourself first because of the shame and the disgrace they may cause us? Do we shun them, kick them out, and/or abandon them…or do we love them and help them?

And what about those whose life or lives are now changed because of this unexpected turn? Are they owning up to the unexpected turn and thinking of all involved? More importantly, are they calling on God to guide them through this?

Many, I have noticed, who have an unexpected turn in life will not only shun away from people, family, and friends, but also God. They either feel shame or fear or turn angry at others because of possible ridicule.

Those I have looked to admire are those who have embraced this unexpected turn and learn to live this new life. They do not shun family or friends, but hope they will understand. And those that don’t understand, they pray that one day they will.

The character of a person is measured when you are most vulnerable, most apt to be ridiculed, and when only God can get you through. The unexpected turn creates a need for mercy from others.

Whether on the outside, the cause, or innocent victim, the measure of the character of a person is discovered in how the unexpected turn is handled. A person of character must be merciful, compassionate, and helpful whether an outsider observing or an innocent victim. For those who have made the unexpected turn or difficulty must show courage and strength by confession. The truth always seems to rise to the top. The quicker one confesses, the faster the healing process can begin. Understanding the disappointment and hurt that will come from others, and allowing them to vent will take courage and strength. If family and friends have love in their hearts, they will come around.

For those who are innocent victims may need a little more time and space. All one can do is allow them to receive both.

We all make unexpected turns in our lives; we all do. Unfortunately, we do not always shine with the guidance of God through these unexpected turns or difficulty.

May the strength of God, who is Love, guide and direct each of us whenever these unexpected turns happen.

May we trust the Lord in all His ways, and lean not on my own understanding;

May we all be a beacon of His light…and His Love!