Lazarevic Ministries

As Christians, we are called to reflect the character of our Heavenly Father. This truth is both a privilege and a responsibility. The world is watching, and our actions, words, and attitudes serve as a testimony of who we belong to. Jesus Himself said, “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden” (Matthew 5:14, ESV). Therefore, it is essential that we live in a way that reflects the character of God, our Father.

The Character of God

The Bible provides us with a clear picture of God’s character. He is holy, loving, just, merciful, and faithful. Here are five verses that describe the character of God:

1. God is Holy: “But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: ‘Be holy, because I am holy’” (1 Peter 1:15-16, NIV).
2. God is Love: “Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love” (1 John 4:8, NIV).
3. God is Just: “He is the Rock, his works are perfect, and all his ways are just. A faithful God who does no wrong, upright and just is he” (Deuteronomy 32:4, NIV).
4. God is Merciful: “But you, Lord, are a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness” (Psalm 86:15, NIV).
5. God is Faithful: “The Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen you and protect you from the evil one” (2 Thessalonians 3:3, NIV).

As God’s children, we are called to embody these attributes in our daily lives. Our words should be filled with love and truth, our actions should be just and merciful, and our lives should radiate holiness and faithfulness. When we live in this way, we reflect the character of our Father and draw others to Him.

The Danger of Misrepresentation

However, when Christians behave or speak in ways that contradict the character of God, they risk misrepresenting who their Father truly is. In fact, if our lives consistently reflect qualities that are not of God, we can be mistaken as children of the devil. Jesus Himself warned of this in John 8:44, where He spoke to those whose actions were contrary to God’s ways, saying, “You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father’s desires.”

The Bible also describes the character of the devil, who stands in stark contrast to God:

1. The devil is a liar: “When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies” (John 8:44, NIV).
2. The devil is a deceiver: “And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light” (2 Corinthians 11:14, NIV).
3. The devil is a murderer: “He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him” (John 8:44, NIV).
4. The devil is an accuser: “For the accuser of our brothers and sisters, who accuses them before our God day and night, has been hurled down” (Revelation 12:10, NIV).
5. The devil is a tempter: “Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil” (Matthew 4:1, NIV).

When our lives reflect these characteristics—deception, hatred, slander, or temptation—we fail to represent God and instead align ourselves with the enemy. This is why it is so crucial for Christians to constantly examine their lives, ensuring that their actions and words are consistent with God’s character.

Representing Our Father

The importance of representing our Father in heaven cannot be overstated. As His children, we carry His name and are called to be ambassadors for Christ (2 Corinthians 5:20). This means that the world will often judge the character of God based on what they see in us. If we claim to be His children but live in a way that contradicts His nature, we bring dishonor to His name and lead others astray.

On the other hand, when we live lives that reflect God’s holiness, love, justice, mercy, and faithfulness, we become a living testimony to the world. Our lives can inspire others to seek God and experience His love for themselves. This is why it is so important to stay rooted in God’s Word, to seek Him daily in prayer, and to allow the Holy Spirit to guide and transform us.

You are your Father’s child. Reflect His character in everything you do. Let your life be a beacon of light that draws others to the truth of who God is. As Jesus said, “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16, NIV). Let us strive to live in a way that brings glory to our Heavenly Father, showing the world that we are indeed His children.