In 25 years of following God and His teachings, I don’t think I’ve ever heard a sermon teaching on the value of virtue.
The Oxford dictionary defines virtue as; behaviour showing high moral standards.
Dictionary.com states virtue as being of moral excellence, goodness; righteousness, conformity of one’s life and conduct to moral and ethical principles; uprightness; rectitude.
The old testament speaks of virtue as strength and power. The new testament speaks of virtue as excellence or valour. The summation of the old and the new could be said; as a mighty force and an admirable character. I like the sound of that.
When the woman with the issue of blood touched the hem of Jesus’ garment, He said He perceived virtue leave His body. Can you feel virtue? Jesus obviously could.
2 Peter 12:11 writes that virtue should be the first thing a Christian strives to attain; with diligence - a necessary ingredient if you will. If this is so important, why aren’t we hearing about it from the pulpit? Are ministers failing to deliver, or do they think it’s just too hard a topic to cover?
What is virtue, if it isn’t good character and lofty thoughts, a high standard of excellence, as well as high morals and ethics as we strive towards good works, purity and innocence – not an easy task in today’s society.
Peter states if we strive to be diligent in our calling, we will never stumble, producing fruit, showing our calling as sure. Transformation of our character, intellect, emotions, actions and words, putting us on a straight trajectory towards the likeness of God, as we’re transformed into His image.
Words; the power of the tongue. The tongue, just a little instrument, but one which can invoke great damage when used incorrectly. Part of holding virtue is to use the tongue wisely. To be mature is to control our speech; to think first and talk less.
James 3 has a full chapter in the bible devoted to speech. James 3:10 reads; “Out of the same mouth proceed blessing and cursing.” Slander, bitterness, envy, gossip and swearing should all be removed from our thoughts and our tongue.
As we aim to live virtuously, embracing an excellent life of purity and kindness, we realise just how important God’s grace is. We cannot live 100% virtuous, without an infusion of grace.
Remembering virtue isn’t perfection, but consistent excellence in all areas of life. When we intentionally choose to align with God’s principles, when we add temperance, prudence and fortitude, as we seek to honour the Lord, we find ourselves displaying the fruit of love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.
If we aren’t showing the fruit, perhaps it’s time to lift our game. I for one, would love to go through life without any more stumbling, as Peter indicates. I for one, need to be virtuous. To some of us, being virtuous comes easy, for others, they may have to work a little harder to attain it, but with God at the helm we can’t lose. It’s worth fighting for.
I read once, that when we lose virtue, we can fall into depression, confusion, doubt, stagnation and trauma. Perhaps one should consider this, if they feel they’ve failed morally. It might be time for some to repent and ask God’s forgiveness.
And when we have won the battle, when virtue is held at our forefront, then we are the Light of the World, able to point the way as we shine; a bright beacon for all to see.
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