Imitate Christ

Ephesians 5:1-4 (NKJV)
Walk in Love
[1] Therefore be imitators of God as dear children. [2] And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling aroma. [3] But fornication and all uncleanness or covetousness, let it not even be named among you, as is fitting for saints; [4] neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor coarse jesting, which are not fitting, but rather giving of thanks.

What does it really mean to imitate Christ? The only way to show that we are like Jesus is by how we love. Love is the indicator that we have a relationship with Jesus. People are going to offend us. When they do, how do we respond?

Our words and actions should cause people to see us as followers of Jesus. As we get closer to Jesus’ return. It will become more difficult to follow Jesus. Jesus, by the Holy Spirit, convicts people of sin. The light we walk in should confront the wickedness around us.

People should know that we are different because of our love for God. We are called to be the light of the world (cf. Matthew 5:14). We are called to live a life that shows we stand for righteousness.

It is not easy to end relationships, though the Bible encourages us. Sometimes, we must end a relationship because we no longer live the same way. In 1 Peter 4:1-4, we read about living a lifestyle that once was full of wickedness, lewdness, lusts, drunkenness, revelries, drinking parties, and abominable idolatries.

By no longer participating in such activities, people think it is strange that what was once enjoyable is now of no interest. When leaving these activities, those who enjoyed your company have become the main critics of the change. Yet, we are told that these people will give an account to God, who will judge.

Living as an imitation of Christ is about living a life free from wickedness. This type of life is what Paul was speaking about in Romans 12:1-2. We are called to be a living sacrifice, a life that is well pleasing to God. A sweet-smelling aroma that God delights in.

As we allow the Holy Spirit to change us, we become the children God calls us to be.

Thus Says The LORD,

My child, I know it is difficult to give up pleasures and things that entertain. I have promised to be there for every person and, by My Holy Spirit, help all who strive to live holy. I help everyone who will yield to My Holy Spirit to be free from addictions, wickedness, and sinful desires.

I desire an intimate relationship with everyone. I want all My people to be different and set apart for Me. I love seeing My people live a life of holiness, setting an example before others of their conviction and commitment to Me.

I understand the struggle and difficulty of not being like everyone else. I know the pain of ending relationships and trusting Me to bring wholeness and peace in a season of uncertainty.

Let My Holy Spirit lead you and convict you. The conviction is meant to grow and remove what hinders growth. My Holy Spirit is there as a guide, counselor, friend, and helper to bring all My people to a place of intimacy with Me.

Being an imitation of Me reveals your love and commitment to Me.

Says The LORD.