Character Still Counts!

             Yesterday was declared a national day of mourning in remembrance of the 39th President of the United States, Jimmy Carter.  No matter your political affiliation, most of us would have to admit that Mr. Carter’s presidency was a disaster—with one major exception, the peace agreement between Israel and Egypt.  However, his presidential abilities, or lack thereof, do not define him as a man. 

            The world we live in can be extremely cruel in defining success or failure.  Often it is only those who are successful in their careers who receive the accolades as well as the monetary success.  Fortunately for us, God doesn’t define us by our careers.  He is only interested in our character. 

            Carter was a patriot, graduating from the U.S. Naval Academy with a desire to make the Navy his career.  However, when his father died and the family farm was in trouble, he put his family first, resigned from his commission, and returned to his home in Georgia.  He was devoted to his wife, Rosalyn, and they were married for 77 years until she died in 2023.   

Most importantly, Mr. Carter was a man of faith.  He taught Sunday School for much of his life and there are numerous accounts of his kindness.  He was also a humble man. During his Presidency, he didn’t want the band to play “Hail to the Chief” when he entered the room, as he thought that it was arrogant to do so. After his Presidency ended, he and Rosalyn worked side by side with others building Habitat for Humanity homes.  He did not expect special attention, and some probably weren’t aware that they were working with a former President.  His faith was evident in the humility, kindness, and faith that he exhibited daily. 

            His life is a reminder to each of us that worldly success is not our goal.  Yes, we may be fortunate enough to have a successful career and be honored by our fellow man.  As Christians, that’s not our goal.  Our goal is to hear, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”  To achieve that goal requires integrity, humility, kindness, and faith in God.  Character still counts!

            I didn’t know Mr. Carter personally but based on news accounts, I think He probably heard those special words from Christ a few days ago.  The question for us is:  Will we hear those words too someday?

Philippians 2: 3 – 4

Matthew 25: 21

Micah 6: 8

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