Feb 15 Sat
Should I strengthen my character?
In the pilgrimage of our present life, we will always have temptations, for it is through them that we make progress. No one knows himself unless he is tempted; no one can be crowned unless he has conquered; no one can conquer unless he has struggled; and no one can struggle unless he is tempted or has an enemy.
Without struggle, there will be no victory, no peace. For “victory and peace cannot be attained if loyalty and resolve to win the combat are lacking.” Supernatural peace is generated by grace, but our full response is needed, and this presupposes a strong, mature, well-developed personality for its foundation.
One’s character is the set of psychic, and spiritual qualities that shape the way of being of each one. From a Christian perspective, one’s character is not to be shaped by an ideal standard, but by the living model of Jesus Christ; it is a matter of love. All these elements around a person do not determine entirely one’s character. The will and one’s freedom play a decisive role in forming one’s character.
“Don't say, ‘That's the way I'm made..., it's my character.’ It's your lack of character.” No one is born with their character already shaped; character is formed over the course of a lifetime through the repetition of certain acts, the fostering of good dispositions, and the determination to cut out what must be cut out. Together with these human means, one needs a trusting abandonment into the will of God, our almighty Father.
Our Lord uses difficulties and temptations to strengthen our character. We fight against discouragement and bravely struggle, relying on God's strength. The determination not to give in but to keep struggling does not mean we have to be insensitive to sorrow and tiredness. What is needed is a sufficient reason to respond to grace: to love, believe, and hope.
The education of character is not a task for some period of one’s life; it is accomplished continuously within ordinary life, through small actions and right choices.
Nothing worthwhile is achieved simply based on initial enthusiasm. "What good are plants that blossom and then quickly wither? St John Chrysostom asks. Our Lord requires the steadfast endurance of his followers." We must pursue our goal resolutely, and patiently, using the right means to attain it.
"Will-power. -Energy. -Example. -What has to be done, is done... Without wavering... Without giving in to human respect." If we are not decisive, we cannot go far in our interior life, apostolate, or work. Saint Josemaría reminded us: "‘Pray that I may never be satisfied with what is easy.’ -I have prayed. Now what's needed is for you to carry out that fine resolution."
"We need to grow in strength of character, in fortitude, for we are not contending against flesh and blood, but against the principalities, against the powers, against the world rulers of this present darkness, against the spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. We need to cultivate serene courage, and flexible, intelligent daring."
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