Proverbs 12:2 (NIV), says, “A good man obtains favor from the Lord.” To be a good man or a good woman is admirable at all times, and the thought of obtaining favor from the Lord is awesome. The Lord smiles when men and women are good, so He blesses them with His favor. I believe through His word that God desires men and women to think about being good, doing good, and receiving good.
Here’s my description of a good person: someone who does the right thing regardless of whether anyone is watching. He or she thinks before speaking and, understanding the power (positive or negative) of words, is careful to speak kindly to and of others. A good person chooses to lift up rather than tear down. A good person cares about every family member, from grandparents to his or her own children. A good person has wide shoulders and puts in a full day’s work for a full day’s pay. A good person takes time to listen to his or her spouse and children and help, nourish, and cherish them. A good person is a protector, provider, and counselor. He or she leads the family spiritually, financially, and emotionally by example, never faltering or wavering. A good person is trustworthy, tells the truth, and lives by the truth. A good person apologizes for a mistake and is quick to ask for forgiveness. A good person is a peacemaker at home, work, church, and in the public. A good person serves when called upon, gives back to his or her community, and gives to those less fortunate. A good person is slow to complain, looks for solutions, encourages others, and is quick to offer a smile and compliment because he or she understands the value of other human beings. A good person knows love as described in 1 Corinthians 13:4–8 (NIV):
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered; it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.
No wonder a person like this obtains favor from the Lord. But to become a person like this requires God’s grace, prayer, and determination. To be all of the above all of the time is impossible because we are human, but His word encourages us to pursue these good traits.
