I know, it’s a curious title for a devotional. Perhaps even a bit ominous. Professor Alasdair MacIntyre surveyed how different people have understood virtue throughout history. Morality today, he writes, “is in a state of grave disorder.” Although we are not without hope, he makes a rather stark conclusion that we are living in “the … Continue reading Virtue as we enter the new dark ages
character
Virtue and adversity
In the 14th century Henry Suso wrote: “Where is virtue preserved except in adversity?”* That’s intense. Let’s take a closer look. First, what is virtue? It’s not a word we use very much anymore. But it’s a good one. It comes up in 2 Peter 1. It means ‘moral excellence.’ Second, where is it used … Continue reading Virtue and adversity
Trust God, not your gut
A person with integrity is someone who acts with whole-hearted (or complete) goodness no matter the situation. It’s easy to show integrity when everything is working out fine and when everyone agrees about what should be done. It’s more difficult, however, under pressure. M. Scott Peck says: “Stress is the test for goodness. The truly … Continue reading Trust God, not your gut
What is integrity?
Integrity. We know it’s good. We like to see it in ourselves and in others. But what is it? A popular definition is that it is doing the right thing when no one is looking. When a lot of people are watching you there is social pressure to do the right thing. They will see … Continue reading What is integrity?
Presently, not just eventually
“make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue…” (2 Peter 1:5, ESV) Salvation. It’s a big word. When a lot of people hear that word, they think about heaven. And they should; it’s one of God’s promises. When you believe in who Jesus is and what he has done for you on the cross, … Continue reading Presently, not just eventually
Humility and receptivity to God
We’re focusing a few devotionals on hearing (or discerning) the voice of God in our lives. You hear God’s voice by seeking God’s voice. In addition to saturating yourself with Scripture, and prayer, and seeking the counsel of other godly people, it’s important to cultivate humility in your character. In the Bible, humility comes up … Continue reading Humility and receptivity to God
What is uprightness?
In my devotional reading I keep coming across the word “upright” or “uprightness.” It’s a good thing. Here are a few examples: -“May integrity and uprightness preserve me, for I wait for you” (Psalm 25:21, ESV).-“Whoever walks in uprightness fears the LORD…” (Proverbs 14:2, ESV).-“My shield is with God, who saves the upright in heart” … Continue reading What is uprightness?
Re-thinking what your legacy will be
In John 15:16 Jesus said: “I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit—fruit that will last.” What impact will I have on the world? What will my legacy be? What kind of a difference will I make? In my experience, people tend to think of their impact or influence in the world … Continue reading Re-thinking what your legacy will be
The recipe for greatness
John the Baptist tells (and shows) us what humility is like. Speaking about Jesus, he said: “He must become greater; I must become less” (John 3:30). A lot of people think about what it means to be “great.” Is it fame or fortune? Is it awards or achievement? Is it a great social media profile … Continue reading The recipe for greatness
Keeping confidences and lifebuoys
William White tells a story about two men who went from house to house seeking funds to help with someone who was sick. They went to the house of a rich man hoping he could help. The rich man wanted to know who the sick man was. He was willing to give a financial donation. … Continue reading Keeping confidences and lifebuoys
