by Elaina Wicks

Created on: January 29, 2010   Last Updated: October 21, 2010

“But the meek shall inherit the earth; and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace,” Psalm 37:11.

God's words resonate throughout the Holy Bible regarding man's character and how character is the guiding force into salvation. The Bible tells us that a “just” man shall reap the rewards of Heaven, while the “wicked” man shall perish. God warns that He will have no tolerance for the unrighteous. “But the wicked shall perish, and the enemies of the Lord shall be as the fat of the lambs: they shall consume; into smoke shall they consume away,” Psalm 37:20.

Is one man better than the next because he has accomplished more and is regarded by his peers? Why is the impoverished man often shunned and discarded? While it may seem that Earthly possessions are a reward, the rich man does not necessarily possess the character to achieve God's blessing. If his riches were achieved by iniquity, then he will face a much darker fate than the poor man of kind heart. God promises far greater reward for the righteous. So what constitutes good character?

Charity and Compassion

As God's children, we are supposed to live and love as one vast family. Families care and stand beside one another in their times of need. We ask of God's assistance when we have fallen and as such, we should return the kindness to one another. To give charity is to give of the heart, to show compassion for other's as God has shown to us. Where would victims of disaster be without charity and compassion? Where would you be if no one were there for you when you needed it most?

In The Second Epistle of Peter, Peter warns of God's judgment. He preaches that Christians should be godly and steadfast, “and to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness charity.” His teachings stressed that a Christian should pursue “moral excellence and selfless love.”

Along with being charitable, a Christian should possess the trait of compassion. Jesus Christ showed his people compassion even despite their mockery and disregard for his teachings. God has shown compassion for sinners when forgiveness has been asked of Him. Lamentations 2:20 reads, “It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not.” Without compassion, we would not survive as a human race. All hope would eventually be lost and our children will grow up in darkness.

Endurance and Perseverance

Jesus Christ sacrificed himself

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