V – victory
I – in
R – right
T – teaching/training
U – under
E – example
I have been told repeatedly that there are not enough good people left on earth these days. Why is that so and what makes people come to such a conclusion?
Recently, I had the privilege to travel to some amazing places. I visited very small coastal country towns and remote mountain villages as well as bigger cities. Believe me, you don’t have to be a rocket scientist to see the contrasts in people from those different areas.
You say to yourself, ‘people are people everywhere – you get the good, bad and ugly’. Agreed, but there is something different. I do not wish to compare people – that would not be right. If you look at lifestyles, you would see subtle differences. Generally in farming communities, it’s a hard days’ work immersed in nature. The focus is not on grooming and appearances. What you put in is what you get out. Read Galatians 6:7-9 as it talks about reaping what you sow.
When you are true to yourself and follow the teachings and example of Jesus Christ, you are virtuous in your conduct and in your thinking. They say, ‘you are comfortable in your own skin’. This implies you accept yourself for who you are and do not compare or compete to be anything other than your true self.
People notice those who are genuine and those who are fake. The opposite of virtue is vice. Key words that encapsulate virtue are honesty, integrity, trustworthiness and loyalty. Words that describe vice are disloyalty, deceit, cunning, envy and wickedness.
There is no perfect human being. We all are fallible and prone to be tempted to do the wrong thing, even if it is the littlest wrong. So how do we measure up to be called a virtuous person? Philippians 4:13 assures us that when we follow Jesus as our example for daily living, we can do all things through Him, who strengthens us.
The amazing thing about following Jesus is that He too was human while He lived on earth. Therefore Jesus can identify with our weaknesses and struggles and temptations. He is our example and through Him we can live a victorious life. Read Hebrews 4:14-16 to see how Jesus, as our High Priest empathises with us and even though He was tempted in every way, He did not sin. We can do likewise and live a life worthy of being called ‘virtuous’ because He strengthens us to do so. ◊
Linda Pearl
About the Author
