Scripture

Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ. – 1 Corinthians 11:1

Observation

Paul made it his ambition to imitate Jesus. Paul also had the confidence as a believer to invite others to imitate him. When Paul came to faith in Christ, he was far from perfect. God had a lot of work to do in Paul just as he does in all of us. In spite of the fact that God was not finished with him, Paul still invited others to follow his example as he followed Christ. He did not say, “Do as I say, not as a I do…” He said the exact opposite. He says, in essence, “Do as I say and do as I do…” Paul recognized two things: 1. Whether we like it or not, our lives are setting some type of example for others to follow; 2. He had the opportunity to allow that example to encourage others in their journey of faith.

Application

We are all setting an example with our lives. At times we are uncomfortable with the thought that our conduct or general approach to life is being replicated in the life of someone who is watching us. This happens quite often in the parenting relationship. How many times have you seen your children doing something that you know is result of your own conduct? That can be a good thing or it can be quite embarrassing. In this simple invitation from Paul, we are challenged to use the example of own lives to encourage others to trust Jesus and walk with Him daily. Even though Paul made mistakes along the way, his life was an example of someone who was daily trusting Jesus and allowing God to continue to change him. Each of us can do the same with someone else today. We can invite someone to follow us as we follow Christ. If we are willing to trust Jesus and allow Him to change us to be more like Him day by day, then we can confidently say to others, “Follow me…”

Prayer

Jesus, I pray that you will make my life an example to others of what it means to trust you. Help me to recognize the how my life is influencing others and strengthen me to steward that influence in a way that honors you and encourages others to walk with you. Make me more like You today, Jesus. Thank you God!

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