Over the next few weeks, I want us to explore the connection between virtues and values. This is not an exhaustive list, but I hope our exploration will be helpful. Our starting point is GRACE.
From the fullness of His grace we have all received one blessing after another.” John 1:16.
GRACE develops VIRTUES which may be expressed as VALUES.
(“Virtues find their origin in God the Father, their expression in the person of Christ and their enabling by the Spirit.”).
VIRTUES | BIBLICAL INDICATORS | VALUES |
LOVE | “God is love. . . This is love: not that we loved God, but that He loved us and sent His Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.” 1 John 4:10 | Wholesome Relationships marked by sincerity, security and sacrifice |
RIGHTEOUSNESS | “But now a righteousness from God, apart from law, has been made known. This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe.” Romans 3:21-22 | Justice Shalom Mercy Grace |
FAITHFULNESS | “The One who calls you is faithful and He will do it.” 1 Thessalonians 5:24 | Commitment Cooperation Diligence |
TRUTH | “Sanctify them by the truth; Your word is truth.” John 17:17 | Integrity Honesty Excellence |
HUMILITY | “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.” Mark 10:45 | Servanthood Courtesy Respect |
COMPASSION | “Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort.” 2 Corinthians 1:3 | Dignity Sensitivity Generosity |
PERSEVERANCE | “May the Lord direct your hearts into God’s love and Christ’s perseverance.” 2 Thessalonians 3:5 | Patience Initiative Passion |
JOY | “I say these things while I am still in the world, so that they may have the full measure of My joy within them.” John 17:13 | Contentment Thankfulness Enthusiasm |
WISDOM | “Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” Colossians 2:2-3 | Discernment Understanding Insight |
HOPE | “Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the command of God our Saviour and of Christ Jesus our hope.” 1 Timothy 1:1 | Courage Conviction Confidence |
We want to see how values – things we would like to see in our community; arise from our understanding of virtues. Let’s go on the journey.