Character to Competence

This infographic illustrates three interconnected spheres that provide a framework for understanding personal development and relational dynamics: Character, Capacity, and Competence. These categories are not just theoretical but serve as practical tools for evaluating oneself and others. Each sphere is distinct but interrelated, and their sequence underscores a fundamental principle: who we are (Character) shapes what we can do (Capacity), which then influences how we act (Competence).

Character: The Foundation (Spirituality)

The Character sphere is foundational, representing the core attributes that define a person’s morality, ethics, and spirituality. This sphere includes qualities like integrity, humility, love, and patience. The reason why this category is listed first is that it shapes a person’s spiritual posture and overall attitude. As believers, the Bible teaches that character is the essence of who we are before God and others. Without strong character, any subsequent skills or competencies may crumble under pressure or self-centered motivations.

Practical Application: Think about a relationship. If the character traits of integrity, kindness, and self-control are absent, no matter how intelligent or skilled a person is, that relationship will suffer. In parenting, character is crucial in guiding a child’s heart. Parents must model these qualities—like honesty and gentleness—because children often emulate the character they see more than the instructions they receive.

Capacity: The Unique Framework (Soul & Body)

The Capacity sphere encompasses a person’s mental and physical abilities, educational background, and intrinsic strengths. It speaks to how a person thinks, learns, and discerns. Everyone has a unique mix of strengths and weaknesses in this area, making it essential to assess capacity accurately in ourselves and others. For instance, two individuals may share the same high-level character, but their capacities might differ significantly based on their intellectual or psychological stamina, discernment, and ability to process information.

Practical Application: In training or counseling, misunderstanding someone’s capacity can lead to promoting them into roles where they are unprepared or incapable, leading to frustration for them and harm to others. For example, a person with a strong heart and sturdy psychological stability may excel in high-pressure environments but might not have the same capacity for deep cognitive analysis. Knowing this distinction helps in placing people in the right roles.

In Relationships: When parents set expectations for children, they must consider the child’s unique capacity. For instance, a parent might have two children, one who is intellectually gifted and another who is physically strong. If they set identical expectations in academics or sports, they might miss the opportunity to nurture their children according to each one’s strengths.

Competence: The Functional Outworking (Unique Skill)

The Competence sphere represents a person’s functional skills—how they execute their capacity in practical ways. Competence includes attributes like application, creativity, shepherding, and methods. This sphere highlights how a person’s gifts and training translate into real-world action. While the first two spheres focus more on internal qualities and potential, competence is where these internal attributes manifest in actual performance.

Practical Application: In a workplace or ministry context, competence determines whether a person can effectively perform a task. For example, a person might have a strong understanding of biblical principles (Capacity) and be morally sound (Character), but if they lack the skill (Competence) to communicate these truths in a winsome and engaging manner, they may struggle in teaching or counseling.

Relationally: Competence matters when assessing someone’s ability to handle complex situations. In a marriage, one spouse might have the insight (Capacity) to understand a problem but lack the creativity (Competence) to come up with practical solutions. This gap can create tension unless the couple recognizes their strengths and compensates accordingly.

The Doctrine of Sin and Human Uniqueness

It’s essential to recognize that sin impacts all three spheres—Character, Capacity, and Competence. Due to the Fall, no one operates at full potential in any of these areas. This reality means we must approach others with patience and grace, understanding that every individual has unique strengths and limitations. Some limitations are God-given, while others are consequences of sin and brokenness, which means growth and sanctification are always part of the equation.

Case Study: Biff’s Story

Background: Biff recently went through a painful divorce. Determined to help others avoid his mistakes, he pursued certification as a biblical counselor. However, despite his passion and burden, those who trained him have repeatedly noted his lack of capacity and competence for high-level counseling. He struggles with discernment, a thorough understanding of theology, and tailoring biblical principles to unique situations.

Problem Analysis: Biff’s situation is an example of misplaced expectations stemming from a misunderstanding of his own capacities and competencies. His intentions are noble, and he has a burden to help others, but a burden does not equate to a calling. The well-meaning formula, “If you have a burden, you are called to the task,” has led Biff to believe he is equipped to counsel at a level he cannot sustain.

1. Character: Biff’s character is admirable in some ways—he is honest, faithful, and genuinely desires to help. His moral and ethical standards are high, and he pursues sanctification in his personal walk.
2. Capacity: However, Biff’s capacity for high-level counseling is lacking. He doesn’t have the psychological sturdiness needed to handle couples in crisis. His cognitive understanding of Scripture is surface-level, making it hard for him to discern underlying issues or get to the root of problems in a structured way. Additionally, Biff’s insight and analysis skills are underdeveloped, which prevents him from customizing counsel to fit the nuances of each couple’s situation.
3. Competence: Biff’s main issue lies in his competence. He lacks the ability to apply biblical principles effectively. When faced with complex scenarios, he defaults to generic advice, missing the mark in providing tailored guidance. This problem has become apparent to those he’s tried to counsel. His lack of skills results in advice that is rigid, overly prescriptive, and at times, harmful.
4. Outcome: Because of these gaps, Biff’s attempts at counseling have not been fruitful, and in some cases, they have caused further harm. Those around him have lovingly tried to steer him away from formalized counseling roles, suggesting other ways he could serve, like mentoring or coming alongside a seasoned counselor.

Practical Suggestions:

1. Reevaluation of His Role: Biff should consider stepping back from high-stakes, formalized counseling and focusing on roles that match his current capacity and competency, such as mentorship, hospitality, or supporting roles within a counseling ministry.
2. Capacity Building: He needs to invest in his own growth through further education, discipleship, and perhaps informal settings where he can learn from seasoned counselors without the pressure of leading sessions.
3. Competency Enhancement: Biff should work on building practical skills, such as listening, question-asking, and situational discernment, before taking on more complex counseling roles. This journey might require years of intentional development, and he needs to guard against frustration or discouragement during this season.
4. Developing Wisdom: Lastly, Biff must continue to cultivate his character and wisdom, recognizing that spiritual maturity will enhance his capacity and competency over time, even if he never reaches the level he originally envisioned.

Final Thoughts

The interplay of Character, Capacity, and Competence is a lifelong developmental journey. Recognizing one’s strengths and limitations in each sphere helps set realistic expectations and allows for strategic growth. For Biff, understanding his unique place in this framework will guide him into a role that aligns with his gifting and prevents further relational and ministerial disappointment.

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Peace,
Rick