Saved by faith will not have us stand still. In fact, faith isn’t faith unless it produces works. By works, we grow in our salvation.

And the greatest work we can produce is Christian character building. It is a work of yielding to the Holy Spirit for the goal of achieving the maturity and fullness of stature that is Christ Jesus.

If we are to become like Jesus, then we must acknowledge that He used His freedom to subject Himself to God’s will. For the sake of God, His behavior was always excellent. He did what was always right, even when slandered, vilified, and treated unjustly. He didn’t retaliate. He didn’t utter any threats.

He didn’t do those things because He trusted in God, and would leave judgment up to Him. Exhibiting God’s character was more important for all to see. He knew that His demeanor and actions would silence some. He knew that some would take note of His kindness, His humbleness, and His good deeds. Upon the Holy Spirit visiting them, they would remember and glorify God.

In the same way, we should be. We should be prepared and desirous to use our freedom and victory over this world on behalf of God. This, of course, is more easily accomplished during good times, but know that the greatest growth of character comes during times of suffering.

In fact, displaying God’s character – that it doesn’t change during times of suffering – is the purpose for which we are called (1 Peter 2: 19-21). Christ didn’t commit any wrongdoing, yet He suffered for us in many ways even before the cross. In His sufferings, He modeled for us the will of God.

God wants us to always do what is right for His sake, even if we do have to suffer for it unjustly or unreasonably. This, proving His righteous character in suffering circumstances, finds favor with God. And He blesses, accordingly.