As we enter a new year, now is the time to set your mind on following good examples. Look to Jesus as an example of humility and service. Look to the Apostle Paul as an example of long-suffering and faithfulness. Looking to our mother and father as good examples works for me and others, but this is not so for everyone. However, having unpleasant habits in our past does not disqualify us from serving as mentors. Paul was a blasphemer and persecutor. He was not a member of the sheepfold when entering Damascus Road, but he encountered the Lord and followed Him because he recognized His voice. Like Paul, we hear His voice and open the door for Him to enter as a leader and counselor.
Even so, we must be careful who we associate with on our journey to enlightenment. Some will still try to deceive God’s elect if that is possible. There is a danger in forming relationships with idle people who are not leading productive lives. “Do not be deceived: “Bad company corrupts good morals” (1 Corinthians 15:33). We need a solid constitution to avoid picking up unhealthy habits. Be careful not to compromise who you are in Christ Jesus.
We all know more than one lazy and dishonest person who chooses to be idle and unfruitful. Eventually, they get comfortable with their life and lose interest in striving to be more fruitful. We encourage you to be wise, “the one who walks with the wise will become wise, but a companion of fools will suffer harm” (Proverbs 13:20). We know things are never as simple as they seem, as this bible verse indicates.
Do not be like those who suffer harm because they will do anything to win a position of power, from lying to ignoring the Word of God. Lying seems to have become a national pastime. People lie and casually dismiss the sin as just an embellishment of the facts, forgetting that lying is one of the things God hates. Jesus said, “Follow Me.” We see Paul, Silas, and Timothy as examples, and they said to the Thessalonians, “Follow us as we follow Jesus.” Let us follow the path of people who carefully stay on the narrow path of righteousness.
Listen to Paul’s advice and imitate him as he imitates Christ. Specifically, he says to the Philippians: “Join together in following my example, brothers and sisters, and just as you have us as a model, keep your eyes on those who live as we do” (Philippians 3:17). We urge you to heed the advice of Jesus and the apostles. They were examples for the people, not lords over the people. We do not need another Lord; Jesus is Lord over all creation! If you are weak, disassociate yourself from anyone who discourages you from following the one who said: “I am the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6).
Minister Nettie Pennington, Associate Minister, Springfield MB Church
