For a free pdf download of this resource click here
This character pyramid is a resource that could easily structure a whole term of mentoring sessions. This session just covers the basic idea.
QUOTES TO DISCUSS
• Abraham Lincoln said: ‘Reputation is the shadow. Character is the tree.’
• ‘Character is what you do when no one is watching.’
• Theodore Roosevelt: ‘I care not what others think of what I do, but I care very much about what I think of what I do! That is character!’
DISCUSSION
Have there been times in your life when you have been commended for ‘showing character?’ What do you think they meant by that? How well have you fared in tough situations? Is there anything going on at the moment which is a real challenge to you in this department?
CHALLENGE
Say: Be careful what you think, because your thoughts become your words. Be careful what you say because your words become your deeds. Be careful what you do because your actions become your habits – and be careful what habits you form because this becomes your character.
Discuss this quote and show the pyramid (a larger version is available on the Premier Youthwork website). Is this true? Are there any extra layers that should be included? What about faith? How does this pyramid apply with you? Is there any way this process can be reversed if we spend time with Jesus?
BIBLE VERSES TO CONSIDER
You could discuss Romans 12:2, Philippians 4:8, Matthew 21:42, James 3:4 or Psalm 51:10. You could also ask which stories demonstrate great character, where an easier option was spurned? E.g. Joseph and Potiphar’s wife, Daniel growing up in Babylon.
