Devotional of the Week

During his college days at Florida State University, Charlie Ward was a two-sport student athlete.  In 1993, the young quarterback won the Heisman Trophy as the country's best college American football player, and he also starred on the basketball team.

During a pregame talk one day, his basketball coach used some foul language as he talked to his players.  He noticed that Charlie "wasn't comfortable," and said, "Charlie, what's up?"  Ward said, " Coach, you know, Coach Bowden (the football coach) doesn't use that kind of language, and he gets us to play awfully hard."

Charlie's Christlike character allowed him to gently speak to his basketball coach about this issue.  In fact, the coach told a reporter: "It's almost as if there wa an angel looking at you" shen he talked to Charlie. 

A good reputation with unbelievers and a faithful witness for Christ are hard to maintain.  But as the same time, believers in Jesus can grow to be mor like Him as He helps and guides us.  In Titus 2, younger men, and by extension all believers, ar called to "be self-controlled" (v. 6) and to "show integrity...and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned" (vs. 7-8). 

When we live that way in Christ's strength, we'll not only honor Him but also build a good reputation.  Then as God Provides the wisdom we need, people will have reason to hear what we say.

Dave Brandon

How does a good reputation help you influence others?
What will help you grow in Christlike character?

Dear God, please help me to grow in character that reflects You and honors You.