"I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character."
—Martin Luther King Jr., August 26, 1963

Humility, generosity, kindness, forgiveness, diligence, patience, meekness, loyalty, responsibility, punctuality, thoroughness, discipline, self-control, fairness, prudence, long-suffering, deference, discretion, selflessness, enthusiasm, modesty, honesty, commitment, tolerance, contentment, courage, mercy, steadfastness, valor, fortitude, gratefulness, consideration, attentiveness, sensitivity, sincerity, perseverance, trustworthiness, neatness, dependability, decisiveness, tactfulness, courtesy, politeness, impartiality, graciousness, compassion, empathy, faithfulness, determination, positivity, and love—these and other qualities of good character are entirely colorless. Moreover, they are universally esteemed by humankind, just as their opposites are universally disdained. This is true discernment. This is good discrimination.

Who wants a babysitter who is irresponsible?

Who hires an employee who is not punctual?

Who votes for someone who is deceitful?

The recent shift in government has brought attention to the principle of merit-based recognition rather than prioritizing "woke" ideologies as the filters of approval.

More importantly, character qualities transcend time and extend into eternity. Being conformed to the image of Christ directly relates to embodying His character. Character development is part of the purpose behind what you are experiencing right now. It is the hope all things are working together for.

As the apostle Paul writes in Romans 8:28–29 (KJV):
"And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them, who are the called according to His purpose. For whom He did foreknow, He also did predestinate to be conformed to the image character of His Son."

We are fully accepted by God, not because of anything we’ve done, but by His unmerited favor, secured through Jesus’ sacrifice in our place for righteousness. At the same time, God is developing His character in us for eternal reward—a reward that goes with us and lasts forever.

Paul further reminds us in Romans 8:18 (KJV)
"For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us."
Becoming more like Christ makes every trial and challenge worthwhile.

So, let me ask you:
Which character quality is God cultivating in you at this moment?

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