Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ. 1 Corinthians 11:1
Meditation: There are two aspects of this verse. First, we are to follow the example of Christ – to surrender every aspect of our lives to Him and allow Him to live through us. Christ set the example of how to lead a godly life by serving others and submitting His life to God’s will. We certainly are not perfect like Jesus, but in God’s power we can walk in His ways. It is not a matter of “doing” but a matter of “being” who we are in Christ.
The second aspect is being an example others can follow. Paul challenged the Corinthians to follow his example as he followed the example of Christ. We also are to set an example for those younger, more immature Christians of how to be an example of grace, love and devotion to the Lord.
What will this do for us? It helps us to grow in our walk with the Lord as we seek to follow the example of Christ and to be examples for others. We will tend to be men who draw others to Christ, not by profound speech, but by demonstrating the love of God to others. What an incredible blessing it would be to have a young man say to us, “I see God working in your life and I want to be like you.” That is a humbling experience, and an honor that someone would see Christ in us.
Challenge: Do others see Christ in you? Are you setting an example for others to follow as you follow the example of Christ? As you follow Christ’s example of love, acceptance and seeking the Father’s will, you set an example for others to follow.
Thought for the Day: Lord, help me to follow hard after You and be an example that others might follow.
Chris Garner
Used by permission – Fortified Marriages.