Why does the Bible talk so much about the character of different people? Many of the people of the Bible are growing in character. As we get to know them, they are not all squeaky clean. While some people may have great character such as the prophet Jeremiah or John the Baptist other people such as Achan in our story today have major character flaws. Through the lives of people in the Bible the Lord shows us the effects of both good and bad character.
There are few personal characteristics that affect us more along our spiritual journey than our character. Those that seek the Lord often grow in godly character while those who refuse to follow the Lord many times had questionable character.
Biblical character can be defined as what makes a person distinct from others, often with a good particular emphasis on moral qualities. When we think of a person who has good character, we often describe them with terms like integrity, honesty, strong moral fiber, care and concern for others, and the like. Character is demonstrated in actions, but true character resides in the heart. [1]
Achan’s Bad Character Caught up with Him
Poor character usually develops over time as an individual continues to make poor choices. Notice the choices that Achan makes are a direct result of his poor character.
Joshua 7:19 Then Joshua said to Achan, “My son, give glory to the Lord, the God of Israel, by telling the truth. Make your confession and tell me what you have done. Don’t hide it from me.” 20 Achan replied, “It is true! I have sinned against the Lord, the God of Israel. 21 Among the plunder I saw a beautiful robe from Babylon, 200 silver coins, and a bar of gold weighing more than a pound. I wanted them so much that I took them. They are hidden in the ground beneath my tent, with the silver buried deeper than the rest.” [2]
Developing Godly Character
In order to develop godly character, one must spend time in relationship with the Lord. As we spend time in God’s word and prayer we begin to change. This is growing in character and we begin to make godly choices.
Paul writes about this transformation in Romans 12:2.Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. [3]
To learn more about growing in character, listen here: https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/seeking-the-lord-changes-my-life-joshua
[1] https://www.compellingtruth.org/Christian-character.html
[2,3] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation . Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Publishers.
.