What are the characteristics of a true Christian?

The life of the human being changes the moment he receives Christ in his heart, since now he is the image of Christ on earth, and he is not independent, but has an owner and Lord.

That means, a you are not going to live by your own ways but according to God’s because He knows what is the best for you and, in the Bible.

Calling yourself “Christian” means that you have now decided to live by following the example of Jesus. And the Bible shows us what ae the things we have to do in order to follow Jesus’ path.

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” Galatians 5: 22-23.

Starting from this verse, it can be understood that the characteristics that a true Christian must show are:

Love

The Bible says that God is love, so it is impossible for a Christian not to show love towards others; The Bible says that the believer must love above all things, even when the other person does not deserve it.

However, to love others you must first love God (Mark 12:30). When this commandment is fulfilled, it is easier to give love to others, because you ae just going to share what you really have inside.

The believer must love his neighbors because God says in His word that ‘we have to love other the same we love ourselves’.

“Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ Matthew 22:36-40

Joy

For a child of God this means living all his life with a good attitude towards life because he is sure that his heavenly Father has everything under control; and no matter what, He will work all things for his good.

”Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!”, Philippians 4: 4.

Peace

Peace does not mean having a life free of problems, it means having a calm attitude amid a time of difficulty, trusting that God has the power to solve everything. This feeling comes with the confidence and security He is the one fighting for us to give us victory.

This peace is not linked to natural circumstances, but goes beyond human understanding, so that it is manifested in an integral way in the life of the believer.

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world “ John 16:33.

Patience

For Christians, to be patient is to wait for God’s perfect timing and will. It is believing that His ways are better that ours and that if we decide to obey Him, we will be able to wait for Him to help us in our situations or give us what He promised at the right moment because He will give us the best.

”I waited patiently for the LORD; he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear the LORD and put their trust in him.” Psalm 40:1-3.

Kindness

Kindness is linked to love and is practiced through small gestures of attention, seeking the good of others.

”Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” Philippians 2: 3-4.