The desire to encourage twenty-first century society to embrace some form of ethical values is evident in the establishment of numerous secular organizations, including the Josephson Institute, whose sole purpose is to remind the culture that “character does count.”  Their literature suggests that a person of character . . .

Ÿ Is a good person, someone to look up to and admire.

Ÿ Knows the difference between right and wrong and always tries to do what is right.

Ÿ Sets a good example for everyone.

Ÿ Makes the world a better place.

Ÿ Lives according to the “Six Pillars of Character”:  trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring and citizenship.

As a member of twenty-first century society, I can certainly affirm their definition of a person of character. However, as I ponder the definition, I find myself searching for a standard by which to measure my application of it.  Because I am a Christian first and a member of society second, I am blessed to have the Word of God as a standard that challenges me to cultivate a lifestyle that conforms me to the only Person who exhibited character is its purest form—Jesus Christ.  Daily it is my prayer that I can say to those whose lives I touch, “Be imitators of me, just as I also am of Christ”  (1 Cor 11:1). 

Since we are blending hospitality and character, let’s take a survey of the Scriptures and create a word collage of what a person of character, who desires to practice biblical hospitality, might look like.  Our collage could be labeled  . . .

            A Person Of Christian Character Who Practices Biblical Hospitality Is . . .

          H—HUMBLE

            Humility is the opposite of self-sufficiency and is a necessary prerequisite if I am going to be of service to my heavenly Father.  I can exercise humility by choosing to step out of my “comfort zone” and invite individuals into my home with whom I may not be totally at ease or those who may have unrealistic expectations about the event (1 Pet 5:5b).

          O—OBEDIENT

            The primary evidence that individuals are Christians is their choice to obey all of their Father’s commands.  I demonstrate obedience by obeying all of my Father’s commands that focus on hospitality (1 Sam 15:22b). 

S—SINCERE

Genuine, as well as an absence of deceit or hypocrisy, describes sincere actions.  I will “stay on my knees” (pray) until I can extend sincere invitations (2 Cor 1:12).

            P—PRAYERFUL

            Prayer—that is, communicating with my heavenly Father, shows my desire for His direction about and dependence on Him for the event.  I resolve to pray about all aspects of the events that I plan (1 Thess 5:17).

            I—INTERESTED IN INTEGRITY

Integrity is choosing to do what is right when given a choice between right and wrong, even when it is unpopular. I will choose to adhere to my heavenly Father’s standards, regardless of what the mainstream of society is doing (Ps 25:21).

          T—TRUSTWORTHY

            A trustworthy home provides an ambience of trust and confidence.  I will study Elizabeth’s life (Luke 1:39-56) as of model for my life (Prov 31:11).

          A—ADOPTED INTO GOD’S FAMILY

            Adoption is making a conscious choice to legally integrate an individual into another’s home and nurturing him/her as if he/she were their biological child.  I will choose, through the strength of the Holy Spirit, to behave in a way that reflects my royal heritage, so that my guests will observe a bit of “heaven on earth” in my home (Rom 8:15).

            L—LED BY THE SPIRIT

            Being led by the Spirit literally means keeping in step with the Holy Spirit.  I will purpose to allow the Spirit to lead me so I will not carry out the desire of my flesh (Rom 8:14; Gal 5:16).

            I—INSTRUMENTAL  IN PRODUCING RIGHTEOUSNESS

Instrumental in producing righteousness suggests bringing “every thought captive to the obedience of Christ” (2 Cor 10:5) and refusing to fret or worry about anything (Phil 4:6-8). I must control what I think about and purpose to be spiritually renewed by humbly presenting my concerns to my loving heavenly Father—even when the hospitality event appears to be beyond my capabilities (Rom 6:13). 

T—THANKFUL

Being thankful is an act of the will that generates the giving of thanks to God—regardless of the circumstances.  I choose to learn to be content regardless of my circumstances (Phil 2:11b; Col 3:15).

            Y–YIELDED

            Possessing a willingness to yield to my heavenly Father’s specific instructions to His children in relation to practicing hospitality.  I demonstrate my love to Him by choosing to embrace His instructions with my whole heart—and that is when my joy is complete (Rom 6:19; 1 John 1:4; 2 John 12). 

            The words of Russell Cronkhite, former executive chef of Blair House, the guesthouse of the president of the United States, offer a fitting conclusion to this section:

Hospitality is a wonderful gift.

We don’t need a grand palace, or a dream home—

few of us have those.

To make others feel truly welcome,

we only need an open heart and

the greater beauty of love expressed.[3]

NOTES

INTRODUCING THE COUNCIL ON BIBLICAL

MANHOOD AND WOMANHOOD

The second link I would like to introduce you to is the Council on Biblical Manhood and Womanhood. You may read more about the organization by following its link.

It was my privilege to be invited to write an article for a special edition of The Journal for Biblical Manhood and Woman entitled “By Women for Women.” Published in the fall of 2006 the issue contained articles written by 12 women that addressed twenty-first century women’s issues. My article focused on practicing biblical hospitality. It contains a synopsis of the content I wrote for Practicing Hospitality, the Joy of Serving Others that was released in January 2008 by Crossway publishers. I co-authored the book with Lisa Tatlock. The next several postings will share the article’s content.

PRACTICING BIBLICAL HOSPITALITY

            Whether enjoying personal devotions, a Bible Study, or a worship service, what mental images emerge when you are presented with the passages that encourage the practicing of hospitality? For many, the images are based on the glossy photos in women’s magazines—an immaculate home, a gourmet menu, and an exquisite table setting. While some of these images could be applied to biblical hospitality, what they actually portray is entertaining. When hospitality is described in the Scriptures, there is an absence of instructions relating to the home décor, menu, or table setting and an abundance of directives about the character, home, and guest list of the hostess.

John 14:15 and 21-24 clearly state the primary evidence that individuals are Christians and that they love their heavenly Father is their choice to obey His commands. Though we live in a world that promotes “have things your own way,” I learned that to please my heavenly Father I need to respond to all of His instructions with an obedient spirit, not just pick those that appeal to me—and that includes my response to what His Word teaches about hospitality.

· Rom 12:13b says I am to practice hospitality—literally, I am to “pursue the love of strangers” (Heb 13:2)—not simply offer hospitality to my friends. If I want to demonstrate obedience to my heavenly Father, I will choose to practice hospitality.

· 1 Pet 4:9 builds on the instruction to practice hospitality and reminds me that my attitude is of utmost importance—I am to practice hospitality without complaining! This verse challenges me to conduct a heart search to discern whether I am approaching this opportunity to minister with a “hearty attitude” (Col 3:23).

· I am reminded in Heb 13:2 that my willingness to extend hospitality may have far-reaching implications. If I study the lives of Abraham and Sarah (Gen 18:1-3), Lot (Gen 19:1-2), Gideon (Judges 6:11-24), and Manoah (Judges 13:6-20), I learn that all entertained strangers who were actually special messengers from God. While my motive should never be to give so that I will receive, Luke 6:38 clearly states that the measuring cup I use to dispense my gifts and talents will be the same one used to provide my needs. What is the size of your hospitality-measuring cup?

· 3 John 7-8 challenges me to extend hospitality to those involved in ministry for our Lord. It is exciting to know that as I share my home and resources with our Lord’s servants I become an active part of their ministry.

· One of the requirements for individuals involved in church leadership, according to 1 Tim 3:1-2 and Titus 1:7-8, is a willingness to allow others to observe them in their homes—the arena where their character is most graphically revealed. Are you privileged to be in a leadership position in your church? If so, remember that these verses are requirements, not suggestions!

Next week’s posting is focused on Biblical Hospitality and Your Character.

From Practicing Hospitality, the Joy of Serving Others by Pat Ennis and Lisa Tatlock, © (2007). Used by permission of Crossway Books, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers, Wheaton, IL 60187, www.crossway.org.

INTRODUCING THE ROYAL LADIES’ TEA SOCIETY

             You undoubtedly noted that I listed links on the left side of my Blog. These sites are ones with which I have an association. Periodically I will share about the links. This week I would like to introduce you to the Royal Ladies’ Tea Society. I am the co-founder of this organization whose motto is “serving the world through biblical hospitality one person at a time.” You may read more about the organization by following the Royal Ladies’ Tea Society Link.

             It is my privilege to write a column entitled “The Master’s Design for Gracious Living” for the quarterly newsletter, “Tea Cups and Friends.” The focus of the recently released winter edition is The Good Shepherd (Psalm 23). I thought that I would share it with you.

The Master’s Design for Gracious Living

Gracious is a word that we don’t hear very often anymore; even in Christian circles it is often linked with the Victorian lifestyle and is, therefore, deemed inapplicable to the twenty-first century. Biblically, gracious involves being kindly disposed or showing favor and mercy to someone, usually by a person of superior position and power. Scripture portrays Potiphar dealing graciously with Joseph (Genesis 39:4), Ruth finding favor in the eyes of Boaz (Ruth 2:10), and King Ahasureus treating Esther graciously (Esther 2:17; 5:2)[1] Practically speaking, a gracious woman will be pleasant, kind, merciful, compassionate, and characterized by good taste.

The book of Proverbs provides several strategies for the integration of graciousness into a woman’s life—she is to extend graciousness to the poor and needy (Proverbs 14:21, 31, 19:17), speak graciously (Proverbs 22:11), and exemplify graciousness in her behavior (Proverbs 11:6). John MacArthur’s analysis of Proverbs 11:16 suggests “While evil men may grasp at wealth, they will never attain the honor due a gracious woman.”[2] It is my prayer that my column will challenge you to embrace graciousness in a variety of ways. This edition’s topic focuses on our Good Shepherd leading you through challenges in your life so that you remain gracious through them.

As a college professor I have two primary responsibilities to my students. The first is to provide them with instruction in the subject-matter content, and the second is to determine whether or not they have mastered it. Their subject-matter mastery is usually measured in the form of a test—and it is always my desire that they will earn a high grade on it. I know, however, that for it to be a valid measurement, the test must be difficult enough to align with their academic maturity. I do them no favors if it is too easy, and it is not a reliable measurement if it is too difficult. Since it is my desire that they successfully pass the test I am willing to shepherd them through to its completion. Often they will allow me to do so. Sometimes they resist my assistance.

Spiritually I must be willing to apply the same testing principle to my life. When the Good Shepherd deems that I have mastered a biblical truth, it is likely that He will provide an opportunity for me to demonstrate my ability to apply it. This opportunity normally presents itself in the form of a test, and its purpose is to reveal the quality of my integration of the biblical truth into my life. It is comforting to know that the Good Shepherd wants me to pass the test at the top of my class, not simply squeak by. In fact James 1:2-5 teaches me that the testing of my faith should produce deeper communion and greater trust in Christ—qualities that in turn produce a stable, godly, and righteous character.[3] As with my students, I usually allow the Good Shepherd to lead me through the situations (Psalm 23:2). I am always the loser when I do not.

A study of the life of a faithful shepherd reveals that he is committed to training his sheep to follow him. Most of the time the flock will obey the shepherd; there are occasions, however, when a rebellious sheep will consistently stray. Because the shepherd is committed to keeping the sheep safe he will attempt to teach it obedience—even to the point of breaking its leg. Though it grieves to shepherd to injure his sheep he does so for its ultimate protection. And, as the sheep is healing, he carries it, thus attempting to teach it to enjoy being close to him. Usually by the time the sheep is healed it finds joy in remaining close to the shepherd. At the time of the injury it could appear that the sheep is a victim; in reality, as it learns obedience, it becomes a victor.

When you discern that your heavenly Father is testing you, do you anticipate being a victim or a victor? A victim is an individual who suffers from a destructive or injurious action and is deceived or cheated, while a victor is a person who has overcome or defeated an adversary.[4] Satan is your adversary, and he “prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour” (1 Peter 5:8-9). Essentially, he is seeking opportunities to overwhelm you with temptation, persecution, and discouragement. If you succumb to his ploys, you become a victim; however, if you resist him and continue to live according to God’s Word, you are a victor. James 4:7 instructs us to “submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” When you make the choice to submit to God, you are taking a stand against Satan, moving you from victim to victor status.

Numerous biblical teachings provide us with the formula for becoming a victor in the midst of life’s tests. Let’s examine several principles that emerge from a brief review of their contents:

· You are to make a concentrated effort to rejoice in the midst of the tests (James 1:2). Knowing this is impossible in your own strength, you must actively draw your strength from the Lord (Philippians 4:13).

· The testing of your faith produces endurance or perseverance, thus refining your character and providing a foundation for greater usefulness to our Lord’s kingdom (Romans 5:3; James 1:3).

· Endurance is a command for believers, not a suggestion; its intended result is to refine character (James 1:4; 1 Peter 5:10).

Perhaps you have already faced tests this year. If not, before December arrives, one or more will undoubtedly be a part of your life. Just as I want my students to conquer academic tests, so the Good Shepherd desires you to completely conquer all of your spiritual tests (Romans 8:31-39). The choice is yours. Will you follow the Good Shepherd and allow Him to lead you in paths of righteousness (Psalm 23: 2-4) so that you are a victor this year (1 Peters 5:6-9)?

NOTES

WELCOME TO UNFADING BEAUTY!!

Thank you for taking the time to visit my blog! Its title is drawn from 1 Peter 3:3-4 which communicates the passion of my life—to share with women of all ages God’s special instructions which produce an inner beauty that never fades. It is my prayer that the blog’s contents will inspire you to enthusiastically embrace them.

Women often ask me, “How do I know if I am pleasing my heavenly Father?” They anticipate a deep theological or even mystical response to come forth from my lips. However, my response is generally something like, “God’s will for your life and mine is found in 1 Peter 3:4. We are to do whatever is necessary to cultivate ‘the hidden person of the heart, with the imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in His sight.’” Gentle means “meek or humble” and quiet describes the character of a woman’s action and reaction to her husband and life in general. Such a spirit is precious not only to her husband, but also to God. [1]

I do not have to demonstrate a lack of backbone, nor be like a rag doll that flops about. Rather, I am to exhibit strength under the control of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). This type of behavior demonstrates a gentle and quiet spirit, “which is precious in His sight” (1 Peter 3:4).[2]

The postings on Unfading Beauty are crafted to challenge you to spend time in your heavenly Father’s company, cultivating character qualities that contribute to the development of a gentle and quiet spirit. Its contents are drawn from the spiritual challenges that I, as well as women I have taught and counseled through my spiritual pilgrimage, confront. As the unchanging Word of God is applied to our lives, we become victors rather than victims—and in the process, experience growth toward a gentle and quiet spirit.

It is my prayer that the postings on Unfading Beauty will challenge you with desire to develop character qualities that contribute to the development of a gentle and quiet spirit. Thanks again for your visit!