The godly walk with integrity; blessed are their children who follow them.

Proverbs 20: 7

Character matters – more than we think. As the verse above from Proverbs reminds us, a life characterized by integrity blesses the children that follow. Of course, a lack of character can also have an impact on our kids.

I’ve heard this type of story more than once – A personal journey of faith was almost derailed by the inconsistency of some family members who outwardly claimed to live for Christ, but whose actions set less than a good example. Some recognize the disconnect and the lack of an authentic (not perfect) Christian examples and are still able to navigate the truth of Christianity in their own lives. Others are unable to get past what they see as hypocrisy and ultimately reject the faith.

“If conversion makes no improvements in a man’s outward actions then I think his ‘conversion’ was largely imaginary.”

– C.S. Lewis

It’ good to reflect on the kind of influence we’ve had on others. It’s a sobering thought, don’t you agree?

While it’s not an all-inclusive list, Paul did give the Ephesians some clear direction in terms of character:

“…Let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy. So stop telling lies. Let us tell our neighbors the truth, for we are all parts of the same body. And “don’t sin by letting anger control you.” Don’t let the sun go down while you are still angry, for anger gives a foothold to the devil. If you are a thief, quit stealing. Instead, use your hands for good hard work, and then give generously to others in need. Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them” (Ephesians 4: 23-29).

While that is a compelling list, notice that the foundation of a transformed life is to allow the Holy Spirit to renew the way you think. The transformation of our character works from the inside out.