The Character of Christ
Excerpts
Christlike character grows out of a Christlike heart. Thus, if we are to succeed in developing a Christlike character, we must possess His motivations—His thoughts, desires, and intents of the heart. For us, it will require what the scriptures call a mighty change of heart. …
What are the desires of Christ’s heart that we want to carry in our own heart? I will mention three.
1. The Pure Love of Christ
Foremost among the motives that form Christ’s character is charity, “the pure love of Christ.” …
The love of Christ yields character traits such as compassion, patience, a willingness to correct “when moved upon by the Holy Ghost,” and certainly a willingness to forgive. …
2. Lifting and Ministering to Others
A second motivation that underlies the Savior’s character is His passion to foster the happiness and advancement of others. …
Character qualities that grow out of devotion to the well-being and success of others include humility, meekness, selflessness, and courage. …
3. Devotion to the Will of God
A third motivating force essential to the character of Christ is His desire to glorify the Father and to fulfill the Father’s will in every particular. …
A Christlike desire to glorify God and do His will leads to the character qualities of honor, integrity, and virtue. …
… With faith in Christ, we can pray that the Holy Spirit will effect a mighty change in us to instill these same divine motivations in our heart and help us practice the attributes of a Christlike character.
… No one of us alone can change the world, but each of us can have an influence in the world.