Peter and I have decided to be very proactive in our character training with our children. This takes a few forms
- Studying one trait a month using www.characterfirst.com material
- Using words and definitions we have previously learnt to elevate the character we see or want to see
- Target a negative behaviour / habit by one-on-one studies of character with a particular child
The beginning of the month brings a new character trait for us to study: Enthusiasm.
I am constantly amazed at how God uses these traits to target something in my own life. Yesterday as I sat down to prepare this months focus discussions was no different.
First, Pete and I had been discussing the pros and cons over a certain decision. There in Power of True Success (a book published by Character First for Christians to study the application of character in the life of a Christian) Enthusiasm is based on the Greek words in / Theo meaning in God. It outlined a difference between being enthused in our soul by a good idea and being enthused in our spirit by a God idea. (My words here) Doesnt that just confirm the pros and cons real easy!
Secondly, the idea that Enthusiasm is the positive outlook and excitement that a person would have for a task directed and blessed by Divine providence. What has God called me to be / do? To be a wife, a mother, a homemaker, someone who cares for others, helps others, gives. The challenge is there for me to see the tasks that I have to deal with as directed and blessed by God. Therefore I can be enthusiastic!
Character First outlines five commitment statements. These are so applicable to my life as I look at my duties, responsibilities, to-do lists .
I will be an energy-giver
I will smile
I will treat every job as important
I will put my whole heart into what I do
I will not be discouraged by failure.
Deut.10:12 And now, Israel, what does the Lord your God require of you but to fear the Lord your God, to walk in all His ways, and to love Him, and to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul (enthusiasm!)
Eccl. 9:10 Whatsoever thy hand finds to do, do it with all your might (enthusiasm!)
Triump is just umph added to try!
I have been struggling with this character trait, and have been in constant prayer over it, with no specific plan to correct it – and I just found your post! Thank you! I am writing down that list and keeping it with me, hopefully the Lord can work with me yet! I will definitely be visiting that website as well. I have such trouble being enthusiastic about tiresome tasks, and I know that I am to be thankful in everything, hence my conviction… I also tend to blame myself when my girls misbehave – feeling I am failing. Anyway, thanks again for your timely post!
Ash