CHARACTER THROUGH STORMS

written by Andrew Corbett

TURN THE STORMS OF LIFE INTO THE WIND FOR YOUR SAILS

Some of the greatest achievements of human history have been achieved by people who were either too sick, too busy, or too tired. Most people who achieve significance have probably been shaped by a determination that grew out of adversity. During these adverse circumstances they develop an ability to see things as they should be. Some call this vision. But a vision is only worth the character of the visionary.

When wealth is lost, nothing is lost;
When health is lost, something is lost;
When character is lost, all is lost.

(Anonymous, cited by John Maxwell)

VISION AND CHARACTER

The quality of a vision is determined by the quality of a person's character. To accomplish a vision, God must first accomplish something in us.

1. Where does God begin to work when He wants to accomplish His pleasure in us? (Phil. 2:13)

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Sometimes God wants us to be able handle adverse situations in a godly way. A person's true character comes to the surface when they are under real pressure. It's during these times that a person's vision is tested. A vision that is easily dismissed by adversity was only ever a mirage.

2. According to Romans 5:3-5 what is it that precipitates character?

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OBSTACLES AND CHARACTER

There is a very obvious principle that obstacles aid direction. The natural obstacle for an eagle to fly is wind. Yet it is the warm air of wind that actually helps the eagle to soar.

3. Set against the backdrop of opposition, what does the passage in Isaiah 40:29-31 promise the believer?

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The natural obstacle of a boat is water. Yet it is water that causes the boat to sail. Wind is an obstacle to yachts, yet it the same wind that causes it to sail. Recenty I met someone who was diagnosed with diabetes. At first he was sorrowful about his impending diet and lifestyle change. After a few months where he was forced to eat right, exercise more, and avoid sweets and fats, he actually became thankful for his diabetes, since he had never been so healthy!

4. How does Romans 8:28 affect people with a battered vision?

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. Don't see your obstacles as road blocks to you vision. Instead, use them as building blocks.

. Amen.

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