Active Virtue

Meekness is a well-known quality of Christian life. There’s no roughness, rudeness, or violence in the kingdom of God, where all have nobility and self-control through the power of Christ. Yet there is more to the Christian life than simply what we don’t do wrong. True faith also involves what we do do right.

“Those who would win success must be courageous and hopeful. They should cultivate not only the passive but the active virtues. While they are to give the soft answer that turns away wrath, they must possess the courage of a hero to resist evil. With the charity that endures all things, they need the force of character that will make their influence a positive power.”—The Ministry of Healing, pp. 497, 498.

Some people have good intentions, but they listen to their feelings too much. They lack firmness, aim, and decisiveness. This weakness should be overcome and moral backbone cultivated. The Christian is to have an integrity that cannot be flattered, bribed, or bullied.

Why is it important to develop strength of character when young?

“A weak, irresolute spirit indulged in boyhood and youth will make a life of constant toil and struggle because decision and firm principle are wanting [lacking]. Such will ever be trammeled [hindered] in making a success of this life, and they will be in danger of losing the better life.”—Testimonies, vol. 3, p. 195.

So while young, be sure to look to God for strength, cultivating active virtues to be able to stand for truth. It’s worth the effort!