Character Weakness

Last time we looked at why we shouldn’t try to overcome weaknesses in the abilities and talents that God gave us. This time we’ll look at why we can’t take that same tact when it comes to weaknesses in our character.


Unlike talents, where there isn’t a prescribed set for any given individual, there is a handbook on character, and there is a very definite list of traits that God has given us to have. What that means is that when we have a deficiency in character you have to address it; and it must be changed.

Character weaknesses affect us unlike a talent weakness. God has given us talents to serve in certain places within His Kingdom. Character is something God wants everyone to have, and without it not only are we not obedient to Him, but no one is going to follow us, limiting what we can do for God’s Kingdom.

The thing about character weaknesses, though, is this: they are part and parcel of being a sinful human being. And that means that we can’t beat them on our own. It also means we all have them.

As we are leading in our organizations, and as we are raising up new leaders, we are going to have to identify and eradicate these weaknesses. Our obedience depends on it, our organizations are depending on it, and our students are depending on it.

Here’s a few pointers:

1. Identify your weaknesses. Chances are you probably are already well aware of where you fall short in the character arena, but you may also have some weaknesses that would blindside you. There are two ways that you can ascertain where character weakness has started choking the ministry life out of you:

a. A trusted peer-ask a trusted friend to gracefully share with you where they think you’re character might be coming up short. Prayerfully prepare for this, it’s not a fun experience. There will be times when you will have wished you didn’t ask.

b. Prayer-Pray that God would show you where your weaknesses are. He will, because He wants you to confess your sin and repent.

2. Set up better disciplines. From a knowledge of your own weaknesses, sometimes you can overcome them with discipline. There are some situations that you react badly to, and so you avoid those situations or through knowing about the weakness, control it. However, when you can’t take care of it(and that’s more than often the case)…

3. Pray. God will work with your character weaknesses. Through His word, prayer, and other spiritual disciplines He can and will change your life.

As we are bringing up the next generation of leaders, let them see this process in you. Be transparent with your students about your character weaknesses, and encourage them to do the same. Pray for each other. If your students are well versed in their own weaknesses before they allow them to screw up their ministries, they will be that much more prepared for leadership.



Training Tomorrow’s Leaders Today,

Matt