Character Still Counts

December 16, 2019
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.