I Timothy 4:15 “Practice these things, immerse yourself in them, so that all may see your progress.”  What does the statement “practice these things” mean?  The previous verses tell us: reading of Scripture, using our gift from God, being an example of Christ in speech, conduct, love, faith and purity, having sound doctrine, integrity, perseverance and other traits of character.  You have heard the term that you are the sum total of what you eat and there is much truth in it.  Our character is the sum total of our daily habits and the things that Paul is describing to Timothy.  Integrity is one of the best examples.  We cannot claim to have integrity unless we have the habit of always being honest.  We cannot have courage if we don’t have the repetitive habit to stand up for truth and what is right.  Just as our food intake often defines our health and body, our personal habits define our character.

Habits are not instant and require practice as given in our Scripture this week.  Habits of integrity, courage, perseverance and other Christ-like character traits are not instant or one-time events, but must be practiced and repeated over and over.  Repetition and immersion produce progress, competence and character.  I once taught neurosurgery to veterinary medical students and practiced this specialty in a teaching hospital.  It was true in my own life and career. I taught the students that repetition was required for confidence and competency.  If I had to have brain or spinal surgery myself, I would make certain that the neurosurgeon was in the habit of doing many of the same surgeries and had a record of success and recognized competency.  Our habits of daily living and walking with Christ define our character, so practice Godly habits.  The more we practice them, the progress of our personal character and leadership will become more competent and impact those whom we lead.