Character

Character: an inner motivation to do what is right according to the highest standards of behavior in every circumstance. Character is choosing the very best response to the pressure of a circumstance or situation whether anyone is watching or not.
Character transcends culture, race, age, social status, religion, gender, and nationality, because it deals with the daily struggles of human nature.We all have some sin or habit that violates the character that we believe in. We need the power of God to overcome. Paul expressed it this way in Romans 7, "The things that I know are wrong and don't want to do, I keep doing; and the things that are right and I want to do, I don't do! O wretched man! who shall deliver me from this body of death?" (paraphrased)
Demonstrating character qualities is not possible without a change of heart, and does require an act of supernatural power.
Has someone ever gave you too much change at the store and you thought, "ummh, no one will know ........ free money... but then your heart is pricked by the spirit and you had to return the money. Didn't you feel good when you made the right decision?
Every character quality is a practical expression of perfect love. It takes the power of God to develop and live out such love.
 God has designed our life with ongoing situations that make us become aware of our total dependence on Him. It is humanly impossible to keep perfect character qualities without Him.
Look at some of God's commands in His word. "Be perfect" Deut. 18:13, "Be holy..." Lev. 19:2, "Put off all ...anger" Col 3:8, "Love your enemies", Matt 5:44 and there are many more. But, when we cry out to Him we can be sure that he will be there to help. Deliverance will not come until we cry out.
Character building comes from our hearts being changed. Our hearts are only changed by being born again by the Spirit of God.. "Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the Lord of hosts". Zach,.4:6
Nancy