Living a life guided by Christian values can often shape a person’s character in remarkable ways.
The difference boils down to actions. People who live by Christian values operate from a place of love and kindness, and this is often mirrored in their behavior.
Adopting these values doesn’t mean being perfect, but it certainly means striving for goodness, even when the going gets tough.
People who embody Christian values can often be recognized by certain traits. And those who are keen observers will notice that these traits set them apart in the best way possible.
Here are some traits you’ll commonly find in people who live by Christian values.
1) Unconditional love
There’s no trait more synonymous with Christian values than unconditional love.
This is the sort of love that doesn’t judge, doesn’t discriminate, and doesn’t keep score. It’s the love that keeps giving, even when reciprocation is not forthcoming.
The concept of unconditional love is deeply rooted in Christian teachings, with Jesus Christ himself being the epitome of this kind of love. He loved humanity so much that he sacrificed his own life for our sins.
People who live by Christian values strive to emulate this kind of love in their daily lives. They aim to love their neighbors, friends, and even enemies without any condition or expectation in return.
But it’s worth noting that showing unconditional love doesn’t mean accepting or condoning wrong behavior. It means loving the person while holding them accountable for their actions.
Unconditional love is a powerful trait that can change lives and heal hearts. And you’ll often see it shining through in those who live by Christian values.
2) Forgiveness
Another trait that is deeply ingrained in people who live by Christian values is forgiveness.
Forgiveness can be a tough pill to swallow. It’s not easy to let go of hurt and resentment, especially when someone has wronged you significantly.
But as someone striving to live by Christian values, I’ve learned that forgiveness isn’t about the other person. It’s about freeing myself from the shackles of bitterness and resentment.
I remember a time when a close friend betrayed me. The hurt ran deep, and for a while, I harbored anger and resentment towards them. But I soon realized how much this negative energy was affecting my own peace of mind.
Being a Christian, I turned to the teachings of Jesus Christ for guidance. The story of how he forgave those who crucified him resonated deeply with me.
I decided to forgive my friend. Not because they deserved it, but because I deserved peace. It was one of the most liberating decisions I’ve ever made.
This act of forgiveness is something you’ll often find in people who live by Christian values. They understand that forgiveness is not just an act of mercy towards others, but also an act of self-love.
3) Humility
Humility is a central tenet of Christian values and is often exhibited by those who live by them. It’s the trait that allows us to recognize our own weaknesses, refrain from self-aggrandizement, and place others before ourselves.
Humility is so important in Christianity that it is a recurring theme in the Bible. In the Book of Proverbs, for example, it is said that “Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall.”
This biblical proverb emphasizes the dangers of pride and the importance of humility. It suggests that pride often leads to one’s downfall, while humility can prevent it.
People living by Christian values strive to stay humble in their thoughts and actions. They understand the importance of treating everyone equally and not considering themselves superior to others. Humility grounds them and keeps them connected to their values.
4) Generosity
Generosity is another hallmark trait of people who live by Christian values. This isn’t just about giving money or material possessions, but also about being generous with time, help, and kindness.
In the Christian faith, generosity is seen as a reflection of God’s own generosity towards humanity. It’s about sharing what we have and being willing to support others in times of need.
A person living by Christian values understands that everything they have is a gift from God, and they’re only stewards of these resources during their time on earth. This perspective encourages them to share generously with others.
You’ll often see this trait manifested in their willingness to volunteer their time, donate to causes they believe in, and help those in need without expecting anything in return. They understand that the true reward of generosity isn’t in recognition or return, but in the act of giving itself.
5) Patience
Patience is another trait that is deeply rooted in Christian values. It’s about waiting, enduring, and trusting the process without complaint or negative attitude.
In a world that often demands instant gratification, patience can seem like a lost virtue. But for those living by Christian values, it’s an essential part of their character.
They understand that good things take time. They hold on to the promise in the Bible that says, “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.”
This scripture teaches them to have patience and trust in God’s timing. So whether it’s waiting for a prayer to be answered, dealing with a difficult situation, or striving for a long-term goal, you’ll often find them exhibiting remarkable patience.
6) Empathy
Empathy is the ability to understand and share the feelings of others, to step into their shoes and view the world from their perspective. It’s a trait that’s deeply valued in the Christian faith.
People who live by Christian values exercise empathy in their daily lives. They realize that everyone is fighting their own battles, and they strive to provide comfort and understanding.
They remember the teachings of Jesus Christ, who showed immense empathy towards the sick, the poor, and the outcast. His life was a testament to understanding and compassion, and they strive to emulate this.
When you’re going through a tough time, these individuals will be there for you. They won’t just offer sympathy – they’ll genuinely empathize with your situation. Their words and actions will show that they feel your pain and are there to support you. This heartfelt empathy is a shining beacon of their Christian values.
7) Willingness to sacrifice
Sacrifice is a significant trait of those who live by Christian values. It’s about putting others’ needs and well-being before your own, even when it’s uncomfortable or inconvenient.
I recall a point in my life when my career was thriving, and I was on the path to achieving all my professional goals. But then my mother fell ill.
She needed constant care and support, and it became clear that I had to step up. So, I made the difficult decision to pause my career and take care of her.
It wasn’t easy, juggling between the demands of caregiving and managing my own life. But looking back now, I wouldn’t change a thing.
Sacrifice isn’t about losing. It’s about gaining – gaining love, respect, character, and a deeper understanding of life’s true value. People who live by Christian values understand this profoundly. They’re often willing to make sacrifices for their loved ones and even for strangers if it means making a difference in their lives.
8) Gratitude
Gratitude is a powerful trait that people who live by Christian values often exhibit. It’s about recognizing and appreciating the good in life, no matter how small or big.
They understand that every blessing, every good thing in their lives, is a gift from God. This understanding fosters a deep sense of gratitude in them.
You’ll often see them expressing thanks for what they have, rather than complaining about what they lack. They’re grateful for the people in their lives, for their health, for their daily sustenance, and even for the challenges that shape them into stronger individuals.
This attitude of gratitude not only reflects their Christian values but also contributes to their overall happiness and satisfaction in life.
9) Faithfulness
Above all, faithfulness is the cornerstone trait of people who live by Christian values. This isn’t just about faith in God, but also faithfulness in their commitments, relationships, and obligations.
They understand that being faithful means sticking to their commitments, even when it’s challenging. It means being reliable and trustworthy, showing up when they say they will, and doing what they say they’ll do.
Faithfulness is about honoring their word and being consistent in their actions. It’s a trait that builds trust and creates strong, meaningful relationships.
People who live by Christian values strive for faithfulness in every aspect of their lives. They know that this trait is not just a reflection of their commitment to others, but also their commitment to their faith and values.
Final reflection: It’s about living the values
The essence of Christianity goes beyond religious practices and rituals. It’s deeply rooted in the values it upholds, values that shape individuals into compassionate, loving, and resilient beings.
These values — unconditional love, forgiveness, humility, generosity, patience, empathy, willingness to sacrifice, gratitude, and faithfulness — are not just Christian values. They are universal traits that can enrich our lives and the lives of those around us.
Living by these values is a journey, not a destination. It’s about striving each day to embody these traits in our thoughts, words, and actions.
Martin Luther King Jr., a devout Christian and a beacon of love and justice, once said, “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.”
People who live by Christian values understand this profoundly. They strive to uphold these values not just in times of comfort but also in times of challenge. And this is what makes them truly remarkable.
As we reflect on these traits, let’s ask ourselves — How can we incorporate these values into our own lives? How can we make them a part of our daily practice? Because at the end of the day, it’s not just about believing in these values; it’s about living them.
