Hidden in Plain Sight

1. Faith is the foundation of virtue, requiring trust in the unseen

"I hear like you see."

Faith demands trust. It requires believing in what cannot be seen or proven empirically. This trust forms the bedrock of Christian virtue, enabling believers to live according to God's will even when circumstances seem challenging or unclear. Faith is not blind acceptance, but a conviction based on the character and promises of God.

Faith transforms perspective. Like Ray Charles learning to "hear like you see" after losing his sight, faith allows believers to perceive spiritual realities that others may miss. This new perspective shapes how Christians interpret the world around them and influences their choices and actions.

Faith is:

• Trusting in God's existence and goodness
• Believing His promises for the future
• Living according to unseen spiritual realities
• The foundation for all other virtues

2. Goodness reflects God's character and transforms our actions

"My goodness."

Goodness is God's essence. True goodness is not merely doing nice things, but reflects the very nature of God. It is an intrinsic quality that shapes a person's character from the inside out. When Christians cultivate goodness, they are participating in the divine nature and becoming more like Christ.

Goodness transforms behavior. As believers grow in goodness, their actions naturally begin to align with God's character. This is not about following rules, but about a heart change that results in Christ-like behavior. Goodness becomes evident in:

Expressions of godly character:

• Compassion for others
• Integrity in all circumstances
• Generosity and selflessness
• Pursuit of justice and righteousness

3. Knowledge of God leads to deeper understanding and intimacy

"Lord, you know all things. You know that I love you."

Knowledge transcends information. True knowledge of God goes beyond facts and theology. It involves a deep, personal relationship with Him. This intimate knowledge transforms how believers see themselves, others, and the world around them. It provides wisdom for living and a profound sense of purpose.

Knowledge grows through experience. Like Peter's journey from impulsive disciple to mature apostle, knowledge of God deepens through life experiences, both positive and challenging. This growth involves:

Pathways to knowing God:

• Study of Scripture
• Prayer and worship
• Observing God's work in creation
• Community with other believers
• Personal trials and triumphs

4. Self-control guards against pride and enables spiritual growth

"Get behind me, Satan!"

Self-control combats destructive impulses. Just as Jesus rebuked Peter's well-intentioned but misguided attempt to prevent His suffering, self-control allows believers to resist their own harmful desires and shortsighted thinking. It enables Christians to align their actions with God's will, even when it's difficult.

Self-control fosters spiritual maturity. By exercising self-control, believers create space for other virtues to flourish. It guards against pride, which can easily corrupt good intentions and spiritual gifts. Self-control involves:

Areas requiring discipline:

• Thoughts and attitudes
• Speech and actions
• Use of time and resources
• Responses to temptation and adversity

5. Perseverance sustains faith through challenges and hardships

"Don't quit. Trust me on this one."

Perseverance maintains hope. The Christian life often involves difficulties and setbacks. Perseverance allows believers to hold onto their faith and continue pursuing God's purposes, even when circumstances are discouraging. It recognizes that the journey of faith is a marathon, not a sprint.

Perseverance builds character. As believers endure trials, their faith is strengthened and refined. This process develops spiritual maturity and a deeper trust in God's faithfulness. Perseverance involves:

Practices for endurance:

• Maintaining an eternal perspective
• Remembering God's past faithfulness
• Staying connected to supportive community
• Focusing on God's promises for the future

6. Godliness aligns our hearts with God's purposes and character

"In your hearts set apart Christ as Lord."

Godliness prioritizes Christ's lordship. True godliness begins with a heart fully surrendered to Jesus. It involves allowing His will and character to shape every aspect of life. This internal alignment then manifests in outward actions and attitudes that reflect God's nature.

Godliness impacts the world. As believers grow in godliness, they become powerful witnesses to God's transforming love. Their lives provoke curiosity and provide hope to those around them. Godliness is characterized by:

Traits of a godly life:

• Consistent obedience to God's will
• Hopeful and joyful demeanor
• Readiness to share faith with others
• Awareness of eternal realities

7. Brotherly kindness extends love to all of God's children

"Where is your brother?"

Brotherly kindness expands family. The biblical concept of brotherly love goes beyond biological relationships to encompass all believers as part of God's family. This redefines how Christians view and treat others, calling for a depth of care and commitment that mirrors familial bonds.

Brotherly kindness reflects God's love. By showing genuine care for fellow believers, Christians demonstrate their love for God and participate in His love for all His children. This kindness is characterized by:

Expressions of brotherly love:

• Equality and unity among believers
• Desire for closeness and intimacy in relationships
• Practical service and support
• Forgiveness and reconciliation

8. Love is the crowning virtue, reflecting God's unconditional grace

"Love won another."

Love is the ultimate expression of God's nature. Agape love, as demonstrated by God, is unconditional and sacrificial. It seeks the good of others without expectation of return. This love is the pinnacle of Christian virtue, encompassing and empowering all other virtues.

Love transforms relationships and society. As believers grow in their capacity to love like God loves, it impacts how they interact with all people, including enemies and those typically marginalized. This radical love has the power to heal deep wounds and bridge seemingly impossible divides. Agape love is directed towards:

Recipients of God's love:

• The "least of these" (marginalized and overlooked)
• The "most of these" (those who surpass or threaten us)
• The "worst of these" (enemies and those who harm us)

Last updated: August 21, 2024