A Word to the Wise – 11-18-2015

by Dr. Walter Olsen

Does one’s character make a difference in the outcome of his life? Yes! Character determines destiny. King Solomon said, “As righteousness leads to life, so he who pursues evil pursues it to his own death” (Prov. 11:19).

It must be seen that Godly character comes from the Lord Jesus Christ. One does not have or produce Godly character on his own. Of course, many people are basically good people in that they live socially acceptable lives. They love their families, are helpful to others, and keep the laws of the land. But that is not the same as righteous character given by God when one trusts Christ as Savior. The righteousness given by God is that which is pleasing to Him and is a great blessing to others as well. It is the righteousness that is needed to go to heaven and thus it is the imputed righteousness given to the believer. Thus, the Apostle Paul said he wanted to, “… be found in Him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith” (Rom. 3:9). Yes, character matters both for time and eternity.

First Baptist Church of Woodville

Dennis Tapp, Pastor 715-698-2624