VIRTUE vs. Impurity

Definition:  Demonstrating honesty and integrity in my life by doing what is right.

Object lesson from nature:  The grapevine

The vine keeper produces sweet grapes by protecting the vines from fungus and other diseases that hinder the growth of the grapevine. He carefully chooses a place with adequate drainage and sunshine to plant the seeds and waters it daily so the young plants absorb moisture and deepen their roots. He chases the foxes and birds that eat the growing fruit and damage the tender shoots. When the fruit is picked, the vine dries up and withers. To prepare for the new growth for the next season, the vinedresser prunes away the unproductive stalks. We are like the vine. God plants us in the firm soil of His Word where we can grow and develop properly. We remove sins that hold back the fruit of service to God and purge evil influences that cause us to stray from God’s commandments. We allow God to prune away bad habits, corrupt thoughts and bad companions so that we can produce the “peaceful fruits of righteousness.” The fruit in our lives...the selfless service we offer to God...is pleasing to Him.

Application: I will…

·        do what is right and encourage others to do the same.

·        guard my eyes, ears, words and thoughts.

·        learn to stand alone.

·        abstain from anything which may damage or pollute my mind or my body.

·        treat others as I would want them to treat me.

This material is gathered from the Character First Education series, Volume 1.  It can be purchased at the Character First!® website.