Tag Archives: the power of personal example

April 19
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“Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.”  (1Corinthians 11:1, NASB)

All of us are examples for others — like it or not.

As a disciple of Jesus, when people look to us what is it they see?

Writing to the disciples in Corinth, Paul recognized the fact that while it might be difficult for others to see Jesus directly; it was easier to see Jesus through Paul.  Our challenge each day is to follow Jesus faithfully in all that we say and do. 

The great 19th century preacher Dwight L. Moody said: “Out of 100 men. one will read the Bible; the other 99 will read the Christian.”

The world is watching you and me.  Who is it they see?  – Luther 

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February 21
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“But exhort [encourage] one another daily, while it is called Today; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.” (Hebrews 3:13, KJV)

Do not underestimate the power of personal example.

Sin is deceitful (e. g. tricky) because it always promises much and delivers little. Fellow disciples who are immature, inexperienced, or ignorant of God’s word are prime candidates for sin’s deceit. 

Sin blunts the power of God’s spirit within us because it causes our heart to become less receptive (e. g. hardened) to both the Spirit’s guidance, and the Spirit’s gifts. The farther we are from God, the smaller God seems.  The antidote to this kind of atrophy is the disciples’ “exercise” of growing ever closer to our heavenly Father. 

We can be of immeasurable help to others at risk of sin’s deceit and insensitivity to the Holy Spirit’s guidance and gifts by using every opportunity — daily — to testify (e. g. give voice) to the active presence and the loving care of our heavenly Father in our personal example of what we do and what we say.  – Luther 

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