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(9) Number nine is “hypercritical fault finders.” Being cynical, pessimistic, or rejecting is a sign of this character flaw. Often
surest sign that a person has this flaw is being oversensitive to criticism. This flaw causes people to be so nasty that their criticism is biting or so oversensitive that they feel that flaw has bitten them. It was Henry David Thoreau who said, “The fault finder will find faults even in paradise.” There is pride in pointing out what is wrong. The hypercritics have an unwritten code that solutions are not necessary, only identification of problems is. Do you know one of these people? I hope not because they can make your life miserable.
Faith Fellowship Church…POBox 1586…Broken Arrow, OK 74013…918-451-0270…Pastor Terry Dashner
(10) Number ten is “chronic dishonesty.” Do you lie when it would be simpler to tell truth? Do you like to see how much you can get away with? Do you believe in letter of law rather than intent? Do you justify your dishonesty? Do you tell people you don’t care when you really do? Do you preach morality to others and behave immorally yourself? Do you pretend humility because you think you are better than everyone else is? Do you need to set up contracts to get you to do what you promised? Do you lie so much that you have trouble believing other people? Do you enjoy conning people? You did so well on other test that I thought I would give you another. Hopefully, you can answer “No” to these questions. Don’t think for one moment that this character flaw is rampant in unbelievers only. It’s not. In twenty plus years of church ministry I’ve had to dismiss staff members from time to time because of this flaw that motivated their actions. It’s a shame that some Christians have “chronic dishonesty” as part of their character. But, unfortunately some do. Honesty is still best policy for all especially Christians.
In closing this devotion let me encourage you. It’s easy to read these ten flaws and relate them to somebody we know, but we must not refuse to judge our own hearts in light of these. After all, strength of character is being able to rightfully assess one’s own self and make appropriate changes. God gives us grace to be holy as He is Holy. God requires much from His people in regards to ethics. He wants us to treat others like we want ourselves to be treated by others. It’s as simple as that. A solid character is worth more than gold.
Keep faith. Jesus is soon coming King of Kings and Lord of Lords. How will He find you when He comes?
Pastor T
Pastors a small church in Broken Arrow, OK.
