Follow God's Example

Ephesians 5:1-2 “Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.”

         Last Thursday (Sept 9) I wrote a devotional entitled “God is Love” where I spoke of replacing the word ‘love’ with ‘God’ in 1 Corinthians 13:4-7. I said this because the attributes of ‘love’ are the same attributes seen in God himself. Our text for this devotional speaks of “walking in the way of love”. Paul, the writer of Ephesians encourages his readers to “follow God’s example”. God’s love was in full display when Christ took the beating and allowed himself to be nailed to a cross. THAT is love. 

                  Now we aren’t being asked to do all that, but instead are being asked to exemplify love in the following manner:  be patient one with another, be kind, be trusting, be protective, be filled with hope and never stop persevering in love. Conversely, we are not to be self-seeking or easily angered. Never keep a count of wrongs. Do not be envious of others or boastful and proud in an unseemly way.

                  I know I speak a lot about imitating Christ. I do so because it is extremely important to your personal witness to BE Christ to others, rather than simply talk about him. I don’t know about you, but I readily admit I need constant reminders that it’s NOT all about ME.  That leading with actions and following with words (if necessary) is far more effective than the reverse. It is my humble opinion that we cannot read or hear about what Christ went thru for us too often, lest we forget. We are loved far greater than we could ever imagine and more than we deserve, but remember, God looks upon the heart and not external things like we do. We are blessed because of what God did for us. We are blessed because God has chosen to bless us. Always remember, we aren’t blessed by God simply so we are blessed, but so we can be a blessing to others. Embrace this truth and continue to strive to BE Christ to those around you who are outside the family. Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing.

Richard Keller

Bread of Life Ministries