Brothers and sisters, join in following my example, and observe those who walk according to the pattern you have in us. (Philippians 3:17-19, NASB).
Paul was an exemplary example of what it means to follow Christ. He was unwavering in his faith, devoted to serving Christ, and unapologetically disciplined. In this passage of scripture, Paul encourages us to follow his example and those who pattern themselves after the sound doctrines of Christ.
Having warned his fellow brothers and sisters about those whose lifestyle shows their contempt for the cross of Christ, he wants to do so again. They took other paths, fulfilling their earthly desires while influencing others to follow them. Their end is destruction because their lust for power is their god. They are proud of things they should be ashamed of because they concern themselves with worldly pleasures.
This world is where people fight for status, power, and fame. However, we must let our light shine. We are in this world but not a part of all it longs for. Citizens here on earth, while bound for heaven, compel us to live for a grander cause. God calls for us to lift a higher standard and not to conform to the actions and beliefs of the world though we live in it. (John 17:14).
With all the temptations in this world, we could fall into its cravings, yet we set our hearts on cultivating an atmosphere where others will see our good works. (Matthew 5:16). Too much is at stake for us to risk losing souls to the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life. (1 John 2:16). Like Paul, we invite you to follow us as we follow Christ as we water and plant seeds into lives desperate for change. Some seeds may fall by the wayside, where the enemy snatches what they heard away because of their lack of understanding.
Others will hear and receive with great expectation. But without being firmly rooted in a firm foundation, as soon as afflictions and challenging circumstances cause despair, they fall away. There are seeds sown among the thorns. Though they hear the Word, anxiety and greed for wealth are louder than the scriptures, so they become unfruitful. However, other seeds get sown on the healthy soil, and those who hear and receive His Word make disciples of Christ. Some produce a mighty harvest of hundred, sixty, and thirty times as much.
Your mission, should you accept it, is to follow us as we live for something far more significant than anything this world can offer. Any offer of influence, wealth, or anything is superficial, with no substance to yield the peace of the Lord, which makes no sense. Following Christ could cost you relationships, alienation, or even ridicule. Likewise, it cannot be something casual you do when you need something from Him, but you have no time for Him when everything is going well.
To follow Him is to trust Him enough to go where you do not want to go. It is to make unpopular decisions, love what He loves, and separate yourself from what He would separate Himself from. It is a selfless sacrifice that calls for your time and effort, but the rewards of such commitment cannot compare with the glory that will come.
I pray the musical selection, More Like Jesus by One Voice Worship, featuring Canaan Baca, stirs your heart to lay down your desires for Jesus and be more like Him. Lord, make me into Your image so I will be more like You!
TIME FOR REFLECTION: What happens when we refuse to surrender habits, beliefs, or behaviors to follow Christ? Please encourage someone today, leave your comment, hit that heart, and share this devotional.
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