The Measure of Goodness

Is there a measure of goodness, a rubric of strong character? Are any of us really better then anyone else? If so, then by whose standards? It goes back to the values one holds—a personal commitment to be righteous, honest, and compassionate.

A measure of one’s worth has nothing to do with looks, money, power, or careers. If your heart is filled with love and compassion—if you embrace all people because they are God’s creation—that is the measure of goodness.

A person of strong character has confidence in himself but never belittles others. He recognizes the goodness that comes from God. God gives each of us special gifts, and each gift needs to be honored and cherished.

It’s easy to love the lovable. But loving those that no one else does—that’s the measure of a person.

A person who dwells on himself isn’t really able to love others. There’s no room for that. Self-centeredness is an all-consuming entity – the more it’s practiced, the more it grows.

A person of strong character puts others first. One can’t do the work God has planned until one is humbled.

You are humbled when you take responsibility for your poor choices and decisions that have hurt others. Making amends has no bounds. Life is a learning process, and admitting weaknesses is a sign of strength. When you are humbled, you respect the thoughts of others.

God won’t ask for a pay stub or bank statement. God won’t ask for a recent photo or a resume. God will ask--who did you love and whom did you hurt? God will count your tears for the sorrow you feel for hurting others.

God knows the measure of goodness. And in our lives, we can only try.