It is essential for our character growth to discipline our thoughts, setting them on admirable and commendable things—those excellent things of God that define a distinctive standard of character for living a praiseworthy life of moral excellence and obedience to Him. A common word used to describe moral excellence is virtue, defined as general moral goodness, right action, and thinking, as well as uprightness and morality. God defines His saints as the excellent ones, in whom is all His delight. The Bible portrays virtue as strength, force, power, valor, and worthiness in the Old Testament, and as excellence, valor, and the remarkable power of God in the New Testament. These terms indicate a gold standard of excellence that all Christians should aspire to and revere. Specific virtues listed in the Bible include love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control, often referred to as the fruit of the Spirit. Displaying these virtues glorifies Him and separates us from a morally unhealthy world. Additional virtues such as righteousness and godliness are also encouraged for pursuit. Discipline is a virtue God desires us to develop. We are urged to focus our thoughts on whatever is true, noble, just, pure, lovely, and of good report, meditating on anything virtuous and praiseworthy. A mind disciplined with noble thoughts enables a person to concentrate on God's very nature, empowering the good fruit of Christian virtue to be produced.

Growing in character is a vital aspect of our commitment to God, mirroring the dedication and sacrifice of the tomb guards at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. These sentinels demonstrate unyielding honor and precision in their duty, not for personal glory, but out of respect for the fallen. Similarly, our duty to God is not for our own honor but to bring glory to Him. Their willingness to endure harsh conditions—rain, snow, or blistering heat—reflects a profound commitment to sacrifice, a principle we must adopt in our walk toward the Kingdom of God. Character development requires total dedication and sacrifice, understanding that it is not an option but a requirement to be holy as God is holy. Like the tomb guards who face strict requirements and rigorous training, we are called to a higher standard, living lives set apart from the world. Their adherence to a creed of unwavering dedication and perfection challenges us to present ourselves as living sacrifices, aligning our actions with God's purposes. True character shines through when we are alone, as it is easy to do right in the presence of others, but our actions in solitude reveal our integrity. The tomb guards march with precision whether observed or not, reminding us to be vigilant and careful in our spiritual walk, resisting temptation and remaining steadfast in faith. Character is built over time through serious, courageous decisions, reflecting moral strength and excellence. We are called to be the elite of the elite, chosen by God to walk before Him perfectly. This demands discipline, forsaking personal glory for the higher purpose of serving Him. Our lives should mirror the quiet honor and integrity of the tomb guards, living in humble service that points not to ourselves but to God. Through prayer, study, and fellowship, we must remain vigilant, recognizing our battle is spiritual, and commit to a labor of love rooted in unwavering trust in our God.