In Stride With Christ!

Perhaps you have read Charles Sheldon’s classic book, “In His Steps” (written in 1896), or are familiar with the popularity of “WWJD” bracelets, key chains, and other items intended to keep in mind the concept “What Would Jesus Do?” that this book inspired. It is possible for such things to merely become a fad or a phase for a while, but is there a sense in which it should truly be the essence of every day living? I first read this story in the 1970’s and passed it on to others. If you have also read the book then you know as each character came to grips with making their decisions in light of the question “What would Jesus do?”, they found it to not be as easy as they had thought. In truth, striving to live LIKE JESUS is made tough by the world. Nevertheless, we have been called to follow in His steps.

As Paul was encouraging Christians facing trials of the faith, Peter exhorted…
“(21) For to this you have been called, because CHRIST also suffered for you, leaving you an example, so THAT YOU MIGHT FOLLOW IN HIS STEPS. (22) He committed no sin, neither was deceit found in his mouth. (23) When he was reviled, he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly.” ( 1 Peter 2:21-23 ESV)

In every situation of life it may not always be easy to know exactly what Jesus would do. Reading through the Gospels we may even be surprised at what Jesus did do on various occasions. We may rightfully marvel at the way He responded and treated others even as He perceived more about their lives than we have been given the power to do so. The thing for us to recognize is that if Jesus is going to be seen in our life, being mindful of doing, living and responding in a CHRISTLIKE manner ought to continually be given serious consideration.

In view of the example of Jesus, even the suffering of persecution or ridicule or whatever is not to deter us from being LIKE HIM. Regardless of how the world may treat us, LIKE CHRIST there should be no deceitfulness associated with our speech. (vs.23) If we are reviled (insulted) we are not to retaliate. (vs.23) LIKE JESUS we are to learn to entrust ourselves to the One Who will judge justly (vs.23) and ultimately deal with those who refuse to accept the life He has called us to live.

It’s up to us. What will we do? Whose example are we going to base the decisions on? What better model than the Lord Jesus Christ who was without sin. (vs.22) If we truly desire to help the world see Christ and the difference He has made in our life, let us seriously consider our daily walk in light of how He would approach it. It may take a few steps to keep up with His stride, but if we are in Christ, how can we walk any other way?

As John exhorted…
“(6) WHOEVER SAYS HE ABIDES IN HIM OUGHT TO WALK IN THE SAME WAY IN WHICH HE WALKED.” ( 1 John 2:6 ESV)

Have a great day WALKING IN THE STEPS OF THE MASTER!
Carl

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