Moral Character

Finally, brothers and sisters, pray continually for us that the word of the Lord will spread rapidly and be honored [triumphantly celebrated and glorified], just as it was with you; and [pray] that we will be rescued from perverse and evil men; for not everyone has the faith. But the Lord is faithful, and He will strengthen you [setting you on a firm foundation] and will protect and guard you from the evil one. (2 Thessalonians 3:1-3) .

Truthful lips will be established forever,

But a lying tongue is [credited] only for a moment.

Deceit is in the heart of those who devise evil, But counselors of peace have joy. (Proverbs 12:19-20)

Keep your tongue from evil

And your lips from speaking deceit.

Turn away from evil and do good;

Seek peace and pursue it. (Psalm 34:13-14) The highway of the upright turns away and departs from evil; He who guards his way protects his life (soul). (Proverbs 16:17) So then, let us pursue [with enthusiasm] the things which make for peace and the building up of one another [things which lead to spiritual growth. (Romans 14:19)

All things are lawful [that is, morally legitimate, permissible], but not all things are beneficial or advantageous. All things are lawful, but not all things are constructive [to character] and edifying [to spiritual life]. (1 Corinthians 10:23)

But test all things carefully [so you can recognize what is good]. Hold firmly to that which is good.

Abstain from every form of evil [withdraw and keep away from it]. (1 Thessalonians 5:21-22)

For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there is disorder [unrest, rebellion] and every evil thing and morally degrading practice.

But the wisdom that comes from above leads us to be pure, friendly, gentle, sensible, kind, helpful, genuine, and sincere.

And the seed whose fruit is righteousness (spiritual maturity) is sown in peace by those who make peace [by actively encouraging goodwill between individuals]. (James 3:16-18) So that you may learn to recognize and treasure what is excellent [identifying the best, and distinguishing moral differences], and that you may be pure and blameless until the day of Christ [actually living lives that lead others away from sin]; filled with the fruit of righteousness which comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God [so that His glory may be both revealed and recognized. (Philippians 1:10-11)

So that you will walk in a manner worthy of the Lord [displaying admirable character, moral courage, and personal integrity], to [fully] please Him in all things, bearing fruit in every good work and steadily growing in the knowledge of God [with deeper faith, clearer insight and fervent love for His precepts]. (Colossians 1:10)