Out of Character
Hay Daizee Loves,
I wanted to write today because of a conversation with a friend last night. We both decided we could no longer afford to be around people who cause us to step out of character. And it takes A LOT for me to step out of character (i.e. blatant disrespect, unnecessary rudeness, and repeated offenses).
Ironically enough, as I sit here typing this intro, someone just tried me via email. It would be ALL too easy to step completely out of character right now and respond with some well-deserved and professional, NICE NASTY. However, I am truly trying not to let people have that much power over my emotions and reactions.
I know we all know what stepping out of character means, but for the simple fact that I love breaking things down…
Out of character can be defined as: inconsistent with one’s personality, disposition, or USUAL expected behavior.
Okay, so if we can step OUT of character… what does it mean if we are IN character? For me, everything goes back to Jesus. My character is completely shaped by my faith in God. My faith influences all of my morals, standards of living, and ethical beliefs. My faith in God influences how I interact with people. My faith influences how I react in certain situations. My faith influences the way I move.
At least it should… 100% of the time… well a large percent of the time because Young Meg is still human and not perfect.
By definition, as a Christian, my character should be Christ-like. I should be honest, loving, kind, forgiving, and patient, slow to anger, compassionate, and the list goes on. Therefore, as a Christian, when I step OUT of character, I am acting NOTHING like my Lord and Savior.
Ephesians 6:12
For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms (NIV).
The devil does not want you out here with a Christ-like character. PERIOD. Our battle is indeed with him and his dark rulers, authorities, and powers. And, although, the battle is not against flesh and blood… the devil will use flesh and blood to GET TO YOU... whether it’s an isolated incident, drama-filled situation, a stranger, family, or even a long-term friendship/relationship.
Although, I have decided that I will no longer deal with/get involved with people who I KNOW the devil is using to get to me… (I block, unfriend, and ignore like nobody’s business these days) what do I do when it’s a coworker, family member, or church member that I see on a regular basis??? Or even a total stranger I was not prepared to encounter and have any type of ordeal with???
Ultimately, if you struggle with this like me, we need to meditate on this scripture and make it true in our hearts and minds. That way when people are making smart remarks, attacking you, disrespecting you, or whatever the situation may be… you can respond in a Christ-like manner. You will have a Christ-like perspective on the situation no matter how brief, small, and petty… or long, drawn-out, bold, and disrespectful.
In one of my December vlogs, I remember admitting that I was disappointed in myself with the way that I reacted in different situations throughout 2019. The Holy Spirit had no problem convicting me of my words and actions in response to others’ actions… even though I truly felt like those who “made me” step out of character deserved it…
We DESERVE to pay the price of death that Jesus has so powerfully, beautifully, divinely, and graciously paid for us. And He literally NEVER stepped out of character. So, this is my reminder to us all… whole-heartedly strive to stay in our character that is Christ-like. I know flesh can get flesh riled up, but please remember it is a spiritual battle. Act accordingly.
Thanks for reading.
Love ALWAYS.
Megan