Biblical Character Qualities

This list is not exhaustive, but here are some key character qualities and basic life skills to aim at in your own life and with your children:

• Genuine conversion to Christ (not just a “decision,” but a heart changed by God)
• God-focused life (glorify and please God, not be a people-pleaser)
• Trust in God (Prayer in everything)

• Knowledge of God’s Word (a biblical thinker, discerning)
  • A consistent quiet time, including Scripture memory
  • A knowledge of basic biblical doctrines
• A heart for the lost (locally & globally)
  • Ability to share the gospel
  • Knowledge of, prayer for, and giving to missions
• The fruit of the Spirit (Gal. 5:22-23):
  • Love (for God & others)
  • Joy (cheerful spirit, ability to handle trials)
  • Peace (not a worrier)
  • Patience (control of anger, frustration)
  • Kindness (compassionate, sensitive to others, especially the hurting)
  • Goodness (thinking of others’ needs, not mean toward the disadvantaged)
  • Faithfulness (keeps word, follows through on assignments)
  • Gentleness (not rude, overbearing)
  • Self-control (disciplined, goal-oriented)
• Humility
• Self-denial (thinking of God & others ahead of self)
• A good listener
• Obedience to God and to proper authority
• Moral purity (God’s view of sex, moral standards; avoids porn and evil media)
• Alert to spiritual danger (guarding thought life, entertainment, etc.)
• Truthful, honest
• Thankfulness, gratitude
• Forgiving (not bitter, not holding grudges)
• Responsible (loyal, keeps word)
• Courage (to stand alone for convictions)
• Perseverance, endurance (doesn’t quit easily)
• Orderliness
• Initiative, industrious (knows how to work)
• Decisiveness
• Flexibility (able to adjust cheerfully to different people & situations)
• Relationally warm (chooses friends wisely)

• Hospitable, friendly
  • Makes others feel welcome & comfortable
  • Polite, has good manners
  • Knows how to make introductions
  • Smiles and maintains eye contact with others
  • Anticipates and meets others’ needs
  • Expresses gratitude
  • A good sense of humor
• Faithful steward of God’s resources:
  • Generous (not greedy)
  • Faithful in giving
  • Good financial management
  • Respect for property
  • Knows how to balance checkbook, budget, save, invest, and spend wisely
• Faithful steward of time
  • Punctual
  • Can set and achieve goals
  • Balances work and leisure time
• Faithful steward of body
  • Dresses appropriately (for situation) and modestly
  • Maintains proper grooming, care of clothes, etc.
  • Knows and follows proper nutrition
  • Maintains appropriate weight, exercise, sleep
  • Knows how to cook basic meals
• Other life skills:
  • Housecleaning, laundry
  • Wise shopper (sales, bargains, etc.)
  • Ability to drive carefully, maintain car
  • Ability to read well
  • Ability to use computer, smart phone, other technology