Everywhere You Go, There You Are

Your character is your foundation. It determines how you live your life, how you treat others, and how others respond to you. Without it You're prone to flit about from here to there, distracted by whatever and whoever comes along , trying to be something different everyday, creating drama wherever you turn.

People without good character are dangerous. They often use whatever power they have- be it small or great- in a negative way, spreading hurt wherever they turn. Terrorists , tyrants, hatemongers of all kinds have one things in common: they lack a strong and positive character.

Leaders motivate and enrich the lives of the people around them. leadership is born from positive character traits and a healthy self-esteem. Honesty, integrity, compassion, and sense of self are all positive character traits that contribute to enduring leadership.
People who lie, cheat,steal,oppress,or scream for accolades and recognition may enjoy momentary strides, but in the long term, they typically crash and burn.

The Bible says, 'Renounce your sins by doing what is right, and your wickedness by being kind to the oppressed. It may be that then your prosperity will continue' (Daniel 4:27, NIV)

Success is garnered one step at a time, with the support of a good team, and without your hurting anyone else to get you where you are going. People who display true character at home and at the office, who work hard and share their successes with those who support them, and who put faith in their Creator to walk along with them will be certain to accomplish everything they were meant to do.

Keeping up with the Joneses is never a productive use of time. 'If your friend jumped off a bridge, would you follow? We often get caught up in following the crowd, trying to keep up with the Joneses without ever asking ourselves if the Joneses are headed in the direction we want to go.The company we keep reflects who we are as people.If you find yourself hanging out with friends with questionable habits and behaviors, you may need to do a self-assessment on who you are.

You can have all the beautiful clothes, expensive shoes, and fancy cars in the world, but if you purchased them with credit cards and you can't afford to pay the bills when they arrive, then your appearance and likely your life is built on a foundation of lies, as may be your character.

If your character is not what you would like it to be , you have to be honest with yourself about where you are stuck and do what is necessary to break free from old patterns that keep you making less stellar choices. You cannot change what you wont acknowledge.
T.D Jakes ( 64 Lessons for a Life Without Limits)

When I read this I was really moved. This Chapter coupled with today's message make for some powerful meditation.