Imitation

Generally speaking, that which is seen of value is imitated. Don’t we desire to model our life after that which has some glory to it? We imitate what we like. However, as we choose what or whom we will imitate in life, we must remember we will never rise any higher than the standard we are following.

It has been said that imitation is the SINCEREST PRAISE! Whatever or whomever is being imitated is being told they have a quality worth emulating. Can there be any higher PRAISE than that? We ought to therefore be concerned with what or whom receives that PRAISE from the way we live out our daily life.

Paul exhorted…
“(1) Therefore BE IMITATORS OF GOD, as beloved children. (2) And WALK IN LOVE, AS CHRIST LOVED us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” ( Ephesians 5:1-2 ESV)

Paul, himself, tried to live a life worth imitating. He seemed to understand the great importance of always revealing the proper standard in his own life. ( 1 Corinthians 4:16; Philippians 3:17; 1 Thessalonians 1:6; 2 Thessalonians 3:7) However, the key to his proper example was in living in imitation of Christ. ( 1 Corinthians 11:1) Someone has well noted “The best school of nobility is the imitation of Christ.” (F.D. Huntington) [source: Dictionary Of Thoughts”, compiled by Tryon Edwards D.D., © 1903, p.377]

Living after the likeness of Jesus -- following daily in His steps -- is truly the SINCEREST PRAISE we can give Him. It is an acknowledgement of His worthiness. It is the surest sign of the acceptance of Him as the standard for living. It is the means of true noble character being established in our life. And it will place us in a position to be worthy of being imitated as well -- to His glory and PRAISE!

Have a great day LIVING IN GENUINE IMITATION OF CHRIST!
Carl

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