Rising Above Character Weaknesses - Part 3

I was surprised when Saul, the first king of Israel, was featured in my college abnormal psychology text book. The way Saul is portrayed in the Bible, it’s understandable why he could be the subject for discussion in a psychology class at a state university.

Saul became so jealous of David that he tried to kill him. Initially Saul employed David to play the harp, which seemed to calm him when what were identified as evil spirits would take hold of him." This condition besieged Saul after the Spirit of the Lord departed him following his arrogant rejection of God's guidelines for his life.

Saul’s life doesn’t reflect complete failure. He forged together a nation out of twelve scattered tribes. He set up a state government and commanded an army that won major battles. He did, however, lose the battle for control over his weaknesses. Jesus said, "I have come to seek and save the lost," so our values should be anchored in Christ Jesus, who frees us from sin that besieges us. Great is God’s mercy!

Rising Above Character Weaknesses - Part 2

Although the U.S. presidential election is over, news organizations and others will continue searching for information to debunk the new president’s power to govern. False information becomes as powerful as truth when information services engage in a feeding frenzy to inundate consumers. This indicates that strengths and weaknesses exist in each person and will influence personal choices.

Pointing out weaknesses in others comes easier than owning them in ourselves. The most difficult course I took in graduate school required me to identify my weaknesses and share them with appropriate fellow classmates. I was surprised by the respect I gained for others who openly identified their weaknesses.

You’re aware of the Greek caption, “Know Thyself". 1 Corinthians 11:28 encourages believers to examine themselves before taking communion. It's important to recognize unconfessed sin and to resolve differences with others. This brings honor to Christ and the church for which he suffered and died. Consider this truth and take appropriate action.