Sometimes, we hear people say, “Do as I say but don’t do as I do.” This quote is morphed from a warning of Jesus to His followers about the hypocrisy of the scribes and Pharisees, “Therefore whatever they tell you to observe, that observe and do, but do not do according to their works; for they say, and do not do” (Matt. 23:3 NKJV).
We all have patterns of living. The habitual lifestyle of good or bad actions creates a pattern by which we are known. Others observe us subconsciously and purposefully. Those around us know us by our patterns. We are generally known by our lifestyle. It is not that people are judging us; they are only taking note of their observations.
If someone asks us about a person, a general summation of that person will be our answer. We are known for our lifestyle or pattern of living. None of us are perfect, we all know this. Yet, if we aim to please the Lord, we will get much closer to the target. Paul said this to the Corinthian Church, “Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ” (1 Cor. 11:1 NKJV). Powerful and scary words that would get a present-day pastor kicked out of the pulpit.
The Apostle Paul was not an arrogant man but one who had confidence in the Lord’s work in His life. He said this in his message to the Philippian Church, “Brethren, join in following my example, and note those who so walk, as you have us for a pattern” (Phil. 3:17 NKJV). Making a statement like that takes a bottle of maturity and good spoonful of audacity.
In the TikTok world it is trendy to be a victim and having glaring flaws is a prerequisite for being transparent. Yet, the Bible tells us to strive to be an example. Paul instructed his spiritual son Timothy, “Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity” (1 Tim. 4:12 NKJV).
Let’s tie an anchor knot in this rope by another quote from Paul, “The things which you learned and received and heard and saw in me, these do, and the God of peace will be with you” (Philippians 4:9 NKJV).
Amen. Let’s live it like we mean it. “People will follow us to Christ, before they follow Christ.” That’s my often repeated saying.
Yours on the Journey,
Harry L. Whitt
Pathway Journey 