Tag: Christian conduct

Grow Up

Today’s Reading: 1 Kings 7; Ephesians 4; Ezekiel 37; Psalms 87–88

Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love.  Ephesians 4:15-16

In both a “loving” and “non-loving” manner I have heard the phrase “grow up” on many occasions. I’m sure I deserved them all and if I had a quarter for each time I was told this my student loans would have been paid off by now. To those who shared these spontaneous heartfelt words with me I understand now and in most cases I’m sure you were right.  I had a lot of “growing up” to do in Christ.  Prayerfully, I continue this journey to put on a new self, created in a likeness of Him. Ephesians 4:24

Paul’s letter to the Ephesians and to us is to strengthen and encourage all believers. Ephesians 4:1 urges us to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which we have been called. Ephesians 4:4-6 There is only one body and one Spirit, one hope, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God, and Father of all.

God has chosen us to be his representative on Earth. He wants us to live worthy of the name “Christian” meaning Christ’s one. For me, I know there has been plenty of times I fell and fall short of doing this.  But, the phrase “grow up” in the the sense of speaking the truth in love is what I needed.  In all my situations, faith based words didn’t always follow the word “Grow up David” but, I realize now their frustration with me.  We can all make mistakes and need a little “truth in love” from others.  In striving to be more mature Christians we need to also speak truth in love with others. This doesn’t come easy.  Some people are good at telling the truth and some are good at being loving but can we do both.  Speak the truth in  loving manner.

Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up…. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as Christ forgave you. Ephesians 4:29-32

Dear God,  Thank you for our unity into your family. We pray that as examples of Christ we model truth and love to others. That we put away our evil desires and submit to your perfect will.  help us to always continue to grow up to be more like you.  Amen

Song for start of day.  Resurrecting

Imitators of me

August 30, 2016

im·i·ta·tor
ˈiməˌtādər/
noun plural noun: imitators 1. a person who copies the behavior or actions of another.  2. To use or follow as a model: Your brother imitates you because he admires you. 
People imitate for many reasons. Some good, and, …some bad. Imitators of words, actions, and lifestyles. Currently, I will see this all the time with my two sons. Jackson the 5 year old will do something, anything, and Marshall our 19 month son will do his best impression of it.(good or bad)  Likewise,  I see these same actions carried out by both boys through my actions as well. (again, good or bad)
Today’s Reading:1 Samuel 23; 1 Corinthians 4; Ezekiel 2; Psalm 38
In today’s readings, 1 Corinthians 4 shares a message from Paul telling Timothy to be an imitator of him. (1 Corinthians 4:16) Paul was sent for Timothy as a model like a father with their child.  Paul was sent for us to remind us of the ways of Christ that we need to model.
Each day God presents us with needs and opportunities to challenge us to do what is right. Is my “Christian conduct” that which Paul modeled for Timothy? My prayer is to grow in this desire and my behaviors daily until His will calls me elsewhere. As a husband, father, son, brother, and friend I know as I list some of these examples of Christ there is vast opportunity to grow. I can talk about faith, but if my actions don’t follow or I’m saying sorry all the time then I need to make some changes. This is the time where I can reflect on another reading from today Psalm 38:18.
I confess my iniquity; I am sorry for my sin.
2The days are long but the years are short.  Let’s set our best example of Jesus for others.  In my study bible it shares some great verses to help us along this path.
  • Matthew 11:29 – Jesus told his followers to learn from his example of gentleness and humility.
  • Philippians 3:17 – Paul urged believers to follow his example of enthusiasm, perseverance, and maturity.
  • 1 Thessalonians 1:6-7 – The new Christians in Thessalonica received training in discipleship from Paul.
  • 1 Timothy 1:16 – Paul used his unworthiness to receive Christ as an example of grace so that no one would hold back from coming to Christ.
  • 1 Peter 5:3 – Peter taught Christians leaders to lead by example, not by commands.

Dear Father, We pray that we are examples of Christ. That we are examples of Christ in our children and in the world. That nonbelievers will be able to see the belief of Christ in us and be drawn to this salvation through our examples.  Thank you God, we know this is only possible through you. Amen