For the Faithful
Initiative
Recognizing opportunities or problems and responding with timely action
Our current faith‑based resources are written from a Christian perspective, but we know that many other faith traditions also nurture strong character, and we want to honor and uplift that diversity.
We are actively seeking contributors from additional faith traditions who would like to help us expand this section. If you are interested, we would be grateful to partner with you.
Initiative empowers believers to respond to God’s prompting with action.
When we step forward to meet needs or offer help, we participate in God’s work in meaningful ways. Initiative strengthens ministry and encourages others to serve boldly.
Essay
Initiative in Faith
By Rev. Dr. Roger Braun, Retired Methodist Minister, guest columnist
In order to write about the character of Initiative, allow me to give an example from my own life. The military is like all life, it is what you make of it. During my three years in the U. S. Army there was an opportunity that I took to improve myself. At the Post Education Office there were offered ways to gain college credits. I often went there to take college-level exams. The Education Office gave me books to study, a place to take the tests, and offered guidance to achieve my goals. The outcome was that after three years of serving in the Armed Forces, I left with two years of college credits. No one came to me and made me do this. It was up to me to find out what was available, set aside the time, and create my own desire to complete it. It was up to me to provide the initiative. I could have sat back and done my military job, and that was all. It took initiative on my part to gain those college credits.
Here is another story of Initiative that has eternal significance. In the Bible, it is written in The Letter to the Romans, chapter 5, verse 8: “While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” This means that people are so completely separated from God that people can do nothing on their own to save themselves, Therefor, God took the Initiative and sent a Savior for us. Since God took the initiative then we have hope, love, and oneness with God along with eternal life. Initiative is one of God’s great characteristics and it is in you also to use and improve yourself.
Affirmations for the Faithful
God gives me the strength and courage to make a difference in the world.
I look for solutions and growth because God is always helping me learn.
I take initiative and get things done to honor God with my actions.
I choose a proactive, servant‑hearted mindset so I can help others like Jesus taught.
I shape my future by taking faithful steps toward the excellence God calls me to.
Initiative Resource Library
The Links below will take you to Resources, like activities, reflections, and visuals you can use personally or in your faith organization to encourage the Character Quality of Initiative.
Initiative Verses
Want to deepen your understanding of Initiative through Scripture? Explore our collection of Initiative Bible Verses for inspiration and reflection.
