April 23 – The Beauty of the Christian Character

In that day shall the Lord of hosts be for a crown of glory, and for a diadem of beauty, unto the residue of his people. – Isaiah 28:5, KJV

There are many whose thoughts are fixed only on outward appearance, revealing by their adornment that they are not truly in Christ. But we are called to a higher beauty—the inward adornment of a Christlike character.

The religion of Christ never degrades those who receive it; instead, it uplifts and ennobles. Through faith in Christ and obedience to the law of God, we are given the promise of adoption into the royal family—sons and daughters of the heavenly King. Is there any honor more worthy of our pursuit? This divine life that is offered to us will run parallel with the life of God—eternal and without end. In that life to come, there will be no sorrow, no pain, no sin, and no death. How different our daily lives would be if we possessed more of the spirit of Heaven, bringing its joy and peace into our words and actions!

Yet, despite the precious promises of God, many remain fully absorbed in the cares of this world. Their minds are consumed with questions like: What shall we eat? What shall we drink? What shall we wear? But this is not the focus God desires for His people. Our minds are not to be fastened to the things of this earth, nor are we to live in pursuit of selfish pleasures. Our eyes must be fixed on Christ. Are we separating ourselves from all that separates us from God? If we are walking closely with Him, our hearts will overflow with heavenly things, and our mouths will speak of His goodness.

The Lord is eager to do great things for those who trust in Him. Do we long to dwell with Christ in the eternal kingdom? Then we must learn to walk with Him now. He desires to be our constant helper in every trial and temptation, shaping us and preparing us for His return in the clouds of heaven.

The beauty and grace of Christ must be woven into the fabric of our character. We cannot keep Christ at a distance in our daily lives and still expect to be prepared for fellowship with Him in Heaven. He must be everything to us here on earth, just as He is everything in Heaven.

Let His likeness be seen in us—not only in profession, but in purity, humility, and love. In this way, the crown of glory and the diadem of beauty that the Lord promises will be reflected in the life of every one of His faithful children.