Established in Righteous Character

Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but he who hates reproof is stupid. A good man obtains favor from the Lord, but a man of evil devices he condemns. No one is established by wickedness, but the root of the righteous will never be moved.

─ Proverbs 12:1-3 ESV

Justin, a fifth-grade math teacher, smiled silently when he overheard some six grade teachers bragging on the same group of boys who had been his most troublesome, at the beginning of the school year last year. It seems they’d taken some of his mentoring to heart. This year, they were taking responsibility and becoming established as leaders in their class.

To be established is to be steady, positioned and eventually successful. Tangible and true success arises within the hearts of those who choose consistently to do what is right – displaying righteous character. Righteous “denotes one who is holy in heart, and observant of the divine commands in practice.” The efforts of those who are established – those considered righteous – stand the test of time.

We all know people who take shortcuts, choose to cheat or runover others in hopes of rising to the top. And although for a while it may seem that they are successful, long term, they will eventually fail. Superficial success is only temporary.

Real success preserves personal integrity and is a picture of high character. Inviting God to provide wisdom and reproof develops godly character. When you choose to be a success by God’s standards, you are counted as righteous in the eyes of your creator.

Today’s One Thing

Today, spend quality time in prayer, sitting quietly and reflecting on your character. Ask your Heavenly Father to show you the true motives of your heart. Allow Him to show you the qualities in your character He’d like you to work on as well as the character you have in which He is well pleased.

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