Character Still Counts
It Is Time to Restore Our Lasting Values
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- $23.99
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- $23.99
Publisher Description
“I don’t know of a more important topic now than this, and I don’t know anyone more qualified to speak on it than James Merritt.”
—Rick Warren, New York Times bestselling author, The Purpose Driven Life
Stop Protecting Your Reputation. Start Building Your Character.
In a world of social media snapshots and cable news sound bites, we’re often more concerned with our outer image than we are with our inner make up. But in the end, integrity trumps image. You can look good on the outside without being good on the inside.
If you long to commit yourself to what matters most—the content of your character—join bestselling author James Merritt as he explores 13 overlooked traits that form the bedrock of a godly life and a good society. Along the way, you’ll encounter surprising role models—flawed people who failed spectacularly, overcame adversity, and went on to live lives worth imitating.
In a world that has abandoned the virtues and values that matter, this book offers a clarion call to return to a simple message: Character still counts. It always has, and it always will.
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
Merritt (52 Weeks with Jesus), pastor and former president of the Southern Baptist Convention, encourages readers to develop character traits worth emulating in this striking examination. Defining character as "what you know is true on the inside," Merritt explores different qualities of character through biblical role models who either taught or exemplified each quality, among them integrity, perseverance, generosity, and respect. Each chapter also references historical and current events, touching on famous and lesser-known heroes, both scandalous and admirable. For instance, while discussing integrity via the life of the prophet Daniel, Merritt calls out the hypocrisy of those who ignored Trump's multiple affairs, yet who earlier had opposed Bill Clinton for similar behavior. He explores humility like that of Mary, the mother of Jesus and the honesty of the prophet Samuel. Esther demonstrated courage; Jesus taught what true generosity looks like; Paul was self-controlled and authentic; and Joseph exhibited incredible forgiveness to his betraying brothers. The inclusion of current examples will engage readers who may not be biblically literate. Merritt's convincing exhortation for Christians to pursue a more perfect character will appeal to readers interested in biblical lessons on morality.
