Everything is measured by some standard of value. Material things are measured by length, breadth, weight, density, usefulness or intrinsic value. Character also has its standard of measurement. Some people are valued more highly than others, whether in the community, in the church, or in the nation. People are valued, not for their physical size nor weight, but for their abilities and more especially for their characters. In a Christian the special thing of value, and the only special thing, is his character. If one's character is not of a higher standard and better quality than that of people in general, one has no right to the name Christian. The quality of one's character is indicated in various ways. One's words are generally a clear index to one's character. A person is judged by them, and his value is reckoned by the reliance that may be placed upon his word. We know some on whose word we fully rely. If they tell us anything, we believe them. If they make us a promise, we do not expect it to be broke. We rely upon them because they have shown by their conduct that they themselves place a high value upon their own word. Of such person it is often said, "If he says it is so, it is true," or "If he makes a promise, he will fulfill it." People can easily believe and trust in their character. It is a sad fact that such individuals are the exception rather than the rule, even among professed Christian,. How many times promises are made only to be broken or forgotten! This is grave matter and marks a serious defect in Christian character. We should never make a promise unless we fully expect to fulfil it, and we ought to feel deep obligation to keep our promise. If we are careless and neglectful of this, it is sure to lower us in men's esteem, and we shall be cheapened and discredited.
By:C. W. Naylor _________________ Samuel
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