Davidisms: Character is Who You Are When No One is Looking

The best definition of character I’ve ever heard: Who you are when no one is looking.

Character is too often influenced by people-pleasing. Schmoozing others to get something from them. Wanting public acclaim. An emphasis on the outside, not inside, of your life. Your words don’t match your deeds.

Who you are in private is real and what matters most. Who are you at home - really? Do you act the same with your family in private as you do when in public? What about when you’re alone? What do you watch privately online, or on a TV screen? How do you spend your time when no one is looking?

Here are two great biblical truths. One, “A good name is more desirable than great riches” (Proverbs 22:1). That good name begins in private, then bleeds over into who you are publicly.

Two, God sees everything. Everything. You may think that in private the Lord doesn’t see, but he does. “The eyes of the Lord are in every place, keeping watch on the evil and the good” (Proverbs 15:3).

Make sure you are faithful, especially when no one is looking.

That is the best definition of your true character.