September 27
Ephesians 5:1-33
Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. This modern proverb speaks to the fact that we imitate and follow what we value and appreciate. Therefore, it is important for us to consider what we are imitating.
Paul tells us in Ephesians 5 that we are to imitate God above all else. His character is to become our character, and his life is to be reflected in ours. The two clearest ways of imitation in Ephesians 5 are love and submission. We are to love others like God loves us. A love that is filled with grace and truth. This love is distinct from modern love that affirms everything. God's love is a sacrificial, gracious love that points people to truth. Further, our lives are to be marked by submission. Jesus submitted to the will of the Father even to the point of death on the cross, and we also are to submit to the will of the Father. Rather than living for our own comfort and ease, we are to live for God's glory and in obedience to his will and ways. We are to consider what is best for others, what will help them to grow and mature, and what shows them love.
To imitate something we must study it, know it, and be able to replicate it. So, how well do you know God so you can live his life? How well do you know his character so that you can live like him? As we imitate him hopefully, when people see our love and submission, they see the God behind us and respond in praise of him.
Father God, help me to imitate you. Help me not to follow the ways of this world but reflect your character and ways in all I do. Amen.
How can you better imitate God in the way you love and submit?
Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. This modern proverb speaks to the fact that we imitate and follow what we value and appreciate. Therefore, it is important for us to consider what we are imitating.
Paul tells us in Ephesians 5 that we are to imitate God above all else. His character is to become our character, and his life is to be reflected in ours. The two clearest ways of imitation in Ephesians 5 are love and submission. We are to love others like God loves us. A love that is filled with grace and truth. This love is distinct from modern love that affirms everything. God's love is a sacrificial, gracious love that points people to truth. Further, our lives are to be marked by submission. Jesus submitted to the will of the Father even to the point of death on the cross, and we also are to submit to the will of the Father. Rather than living for our own comfort and ease, we are to live for God's glory and in obedience to his will and ways. We are to consider what is best for others, what will help them to grow and mature, and what shows them love.
To imitate something we must study it, know it, and be able to replicate it. So, how well do you know God so you can live his life? How well do you know his character so that you can live like him? As we imitate him hopefully, when people see our love and submission, they see the God behind us and respond in praise of him.
Father God, help me to imitate you. Help me not to follow the ways of this world but reflect your character and ways in all I do. Amen.
How can you better imitate God in the way you love and submit?
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