Drops of Character

Have you ever watched an icicle form? Did you notice how the dripping water froze, one drop at a time, until the icicle was a foot long or more?

If the water was clean, the icicle remained clear and sparkled brightly in the sun; but if the water was slightly muddy, the icicle looked cloudy, its beauty spoiled.

Our character is formed just like an icicle. Each thought or feeling adds its influence. Each decision we make--both great and small--contributes its part. Everything we take into our minds and souls--impressions, experiences, images, or words--helps create our character.

At all times, we must be aware of the "droplets" we allow to drip into our lives. Acts that develop habits of hate, falsehood, and evil intent mar and eventually destroy us, but habits born of love, truth, and goodness silently mold and fashion us into the image of God.

--God's Little Devotional Journal