How can you encourage others to maintain "good character" in their relationships? Setting the Stage Good character is not a side issue; it is the visible evidence of Christ within us. Relationships either strengthen or erode that evidence. Scripture is clear, reliable, and literal on this point. Anchor Verse: 1 Corinthians 15:33 “Do not be deceived: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.’” Understanding the Warning • “Do not be deceived” signals a real danger; we can drift if we ignore it. • “Bad company” covers any influence—people, media, habits—that normalizes sin. • “Corrupts” means spoils over time; erosion is gradual but certain. • “Good character” is the moral fiber shaped by God’s Word and Spirit. Ways to Encourage Good Character in Relationships Choose Edifying Companions • Proverbs 13:20 — “He who walks with the wise will become wise, but the companion of fools will be destroyed.” • Encourage friends to seek mentors and peers who push them toward holiness. • Create spaces—Bible studies, service projects—where wholesome friendships form naturally. Speak Truth in Love • Ephesians 4:29 — “Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building up the one in need.” • Offer correction gently yet firmly when you see compromise. • Celebrate victories publicly; address failures privately. Model Integrity • 1 Timothy 4:12 — “Set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, and in purity.” • Consistent obedience makes encouragement credible. • Share testimonies of God’s faithfulness when you resisted pressure. Guard Media and Influences • Philippians 4:8 — “Whatever is true…honorable…just…pure…commendable…think on these things.” • Suggest music, books, podcasts, and films that exalt Christ. • Use accountability tools to filter content that undermines purity. Accountability and Fellowship • Hebrews 10:24-25 — “Let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds, not neglecting to meet together.” • Pair up for regular check-ins on spiritual disciplines. • Join or start small groups where confession and prayer are normal. Cultivate the Fruit of the Spirit • Galatians 5:22-23 lists love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. • Remind one another that character is Spirit-produced, not self-manufactured. • Pray Scripture over each other, asking for fresh filling of the Spirit. Practical Steps for Daily Living • Begin each day with Scripture before screens. • Memorize verses on integrity (e.g., Psalm 119:9-11). • Keep short accounts—confess sin quickly. • Serve together, shifting focus from self to others. • Celebrate milestones: a month of clean language, a restored friendship, a tough moral stand. Closing Encouragement Character is preserved or poisoned by the company we keep. Stand firm, choosing influences that echo God’s Word, and you will help others do the same—proving that “bad company corrupts good character,” but godly company cultivates it. |
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