A Character Reference from Jesus Scripture: John 1:47-48
Jesus saw Nathanael coming toward Him, and said of him, “Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom is no deceit!” Nathanael said to Him, “How do You know me?” Jesus answered and said to him, “Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you.”
Character counts! Your character is critically important in every aspect of your life and witness as a Christian. When applying for a job, applying for admission to a college, applying for a security clearance and other endeavors you must have people who will attest to your good character. When you accept Jesus as your Savior and believe on His name, He begins a process of changing your character and nature to be like His. He literally infuses you with His nature so that people begin to take notice of His character in you. This inner process is called regeneration or spiritual transformation. He wants to change your thoughts and attitudes to be like His. He wants the fruit of the Spirit to be in evidence in your life.
John 1 describes Jesus calling Philip as His disciple and in Philip’s excitement of meeting the Savior, he calls his friend Nathanael to introduce him to Jesus. Jesus immediately noticed Nathanael approaching Him and speaks about his excellent character saying: “Behold, an Israelite indeed, in whom is no deceit!” Shocked and amazed at the recognition from the Savior, Nathanael responded to Jesus by asking Him: “How do You know me?” Jesus responded: “Before Philip called you, when you were under the fig tree, I saw you.” At a distance, Jesus took notice of Nathanael because of the purity of his character and nature. Never having met him until that encounter, Jesus discerned that there was no deceit in his heart. Jesus had given Nathanael an eternal character reference!
Would Jesus give you His character reference? Are you living a life of Christ-like character? Does your character reflect Christ even when you face adversity? Are you guarding your heart against evil? Make a decision to confess, repent of your sins and allow the Holy Spirit to transform your character to be more like Christ’s.
It’s Time to Pray: Lord Jesus, please transform my character to your nature. Cleanse my thoughts and attitudes so that you are pleased with my character. In Jesus name, Amen!
Excellent insight into the importance of character. Thank you for reminding us of this scriptural passage and why character matters. The prayer that followed the devotional thought invites us allow God to continue the work of transforming our nature/character by His grace and through the power of the Holy Spirit. Thank you!