You can experience lasting change through God’s power.

With a singular focus, a clear plan, and sustained effort, you can transform—one trait at a time. God’s power provides the strength you need to build your character and overcome what once felt impossible.

John Evans changed.

Every time he watched the news, his blood boiled. His fists clenched in frustration as he listened to politicians make decisions and statements he believed were foolish. When they went against his core values, he raged. At times, he felt like putting his fist through the wall.

Soon after watching the news, he would encounter his wife in the kitchen. The moment she heard his footsteps and saw his red face, her stomach tightened—she knew what was coming. Ranting and raving, he would loudly explain why what “they” were doing was so wrong. As usual, she said little more than, “Yes, dear,” wishing she could escape the intensity.

Should you change? You must.

Could you change? You can.

If you implement a plan? You will.

    You never think it will happen to you. Then you see a pastor with a successful ministry destroy their lives. Why?

              The threats are no mystery. Ancient and familiar, they are terribly seductive: money, sex, and power, which engender lying and deceit.

You are far more likely to grow into the likeness of Jesus Christ if you choose one—and only one—area on which to focus your effort to change your character.

Have you identified a trait to work on? Does that trait still seem like the most important one for you to focus on right now? Have you tested your intuition with wise counsel from those who know you well? If you are married, what does your spouse think? What about a close friend? If you have adult children, consider asking one of them whether this is truly the most important trait for you to work on first, and whether you have identified it clearly and accurately.

You are to train yourself to grow in character like a soldier, an athlete, and a farmer. What do these three have in common? Each works hard. Each disciplines himself to develop the skills necessary to fight, compete, and cultivate.

They rise early and often stay up late. They work whether the weather is sunny or rainy. Soldiers drill, athletes exercise, and farmers pull weeds. None of them become effective by accident.

Paul sets an incredible model with four parallel statements: I run, not aimlessly; I box, not just hitting the air; I pummel my body; I enslave my body. He is serious about spiritual fitness.

As a runner, Paul does not get distracted. He keeps his eye on the finish line and stays in his lane. As a boxer, he lands his punches. The Greek phrase translated “I strike a blow to my body” literally means to give a black eye. Paul’s language is intentionally graphic—he wants us to feel the intensity of disciplined spiritual effort.