Character Counts

"And first place goes to Isabelle Jones!"

Noah's heart sank. He'd spent hours on his science fair entry. He'd put in the extra effort, but there was not going to be a trophy, not even a ribbon, for him to bring home.

During dinner that evening, Noah's dad asked what was wrong. "I'm still upset about the science fair," Noah answered. "What's the point of working hard if I don't win?"

Dad scooped a second helping of green beans onto his plate. "Noah," he said, "working hard isn't only about winning. We work hard to bring God glory and because we know He's working in our lives to help us develop good character."

"Character," Noah echoed. "We've been talking about character in school, but I guess I'm not even sure what it really means."

"Your character is part of what makes you you," Dad answered. "Do you treat other people kindly? Do you tell the truth? Do you make wise choices? How you answer all of those questions tells a lot about your character."

Noah took a sip of milk. "So,