WEEKLY DEVOTIONAL, 27TH NOVEMBER. "SETTING A GOOD EXAMPLE"

SETTING A GOOD EXAMPLE

One Sunday, as our pastor was preaching, he mentioned the words "Setting a good example" in passing. Those four words got me thinking. Why is it necessary to set a good example? Simple. There is always someone looking up to you, even if you do not want to admit it. It may be your co-worker, children, family members or even the attendants in your favorite supermarket.

 For the Christian, setting a good example draws people to Christ.

Titus 2:7 "And you yourself must be an example to them by doing good works of every kind. Let everything you do reflect the integrity and seriousness of your teaching." (NLT)

Paul encouraged Titus to set a good example for the people around him so that they would take his words seriously. People are always drawn to individuals who practice what they preach.

Christ set the perfect example for us to follow. He had no sin; he lived a righteous life and practised what he preached. Do you remember the instance where he washed the disciples' feet?  Jesus was setting an example of servanthood for them. After washing all their feet, he had this to say.

John 13:15 "I have given you an example to follow. Do as I have done to you." (NLT)

A person who serves others with a genuine motive always gains the respect of men. That is the message Jesus was putting across.

Earlier on in his ministry, Jesus encouraged his followers to use their good deeds as a form of evangelism. Not many people are aware of the impact of a simple good deed. Did you know that a simple act of kindness and compassion could draw somebody to Christ?

Matthew 5:16 "In the same way, let your good deeds shine for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father." (NLT)

The apostle Paul was given a great responsibility by God – to mentor thousands of Christians. Paul had no choice – he had to live a life that would draw these young believers closer to Christ. How did he manage that? Paul had the best example, Christ.

1 Corinthians 11:1 "Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ." (NIV)

Paul also had this to add.

Ephesians 5:1 "Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children." (NLT)

Children imitate their parents. If you do not believe this, watch your kids as they have ‘pretend' phone conversations. Don't they sound just like you? In the same way, we as children of God should imitate him.

As a Christian, you need to remember that there is always someone watching you, observing how you live your life. It is, therefore, important to live a life that is consistent with what you believe in, as that is what God expects of you. God expects you to be different from the world, and more like him. The verse below gives us a good idea of God's expectations.

Romans 12:2a "Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think." (NLT)

If you imitate God and let him transform you into his likeness, you will be well equipped to be a good example to others.

Have a great week!