Today we talked about how to be a better person as we strive to be Christ followers. Ralph Waldo Emerson said, “Make the most of yourself….for that is all there is of you.” We dug into an article by John Rampton an Entrepreneur and investor who outlines 15 Ways to Become a Better Person.
We encourage you to read his take on these 15 characteristics while reflecting on Romans 12:2 which says, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.”
Read the full article here!
1. Compliment Yourself – Remember to reflect on God’s Word and His love for you! There are many verses that express His love and adoration for you.
2. Don’t make excuses – Live up to your mistakes and find a way to learn from them.
3. Let Go of Anger – Holding onto anger causes unneeded stress, bad decisions and health issues. Let go and let God!
4. Practice Forgiveness – This is easier said then done but God calls us to forgive one another and love as He does.
5. Be Honest and Direct – Always tell the truth and learn to express your thoughts and feelings in a loving and constructive way.
6. Be Helpful – Be actively helpful. Help others without expecting anything in return.
7. Listen to Others – Take time to listen to those around you. Being a good listener can open your eyes and enhancing your personal and professional relationships.
8. Act Locally – “You may not be able to save the world, but you very well could make a difference in your neck of the woods.” – John Rampton
9. Always Be Polite – Saying please and thank you or holding the door open can speak louder than your words.
10. Be Yourself – Be yourself, don’t be afraid to stand your ground.
11. Be Open to Change – Be flexible and open to new experiences. You never know what doors God may open!
12. Be Respectful – “Be respectful of others’ time, thoughts, ideas, lifestyles, feelings, work, and everything else. You don’t have to agree with any of it, but people have a right to their opinions and yours is not necessarily correct.” – John Rampton.
13. Don’t Show Up Empty-handed – Go above and beyond, don’t take the easy way out.
14. Educate Yourself – “Remember, we’re all interconnected, and being aware of different cultures, different people, and what their lives are like can make you a more well-rounded individual.” – John Rampton
15. Surprise People – Take the time to make other people smile!
As you strive to reflect God by being the best you, remember this verse. Philippians 4:8 says, “Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.”
As we wrap up Women’s History Month, The Morning Thing dove into Proverbs 31 and pulled out the characteristics of a Godly woman. Check out this blog from Jenn, a self proclaimed wife, mother, follower of God, lover of coffee and classic movies. She dives into the verses and applies them to modern women of today. Take a few minutes to read through these characteristics and evaluate them within your own life.
Rise and Shine 