Consistent Compliance!

My wife works in the health care industry. One of the things that drives her crazy is when she sees proper procedure not being followed. It is important because of the possibility of transferring bacteria and infection from one person to another and thus place health at risk. It is not only her own health, but the health of others of which she is mindful.

When it comes to Christian living we need to remain mindful of following God's Will because souls are at risk. Everyone's life is an example whether that be a good one or bad. Remaining aware others are watching and may follow IN OUR STEPS should encourage us to be mindful of the example we are setting. Also, knowing how serious God is with regard to leading others astray (note Matthew 18:6; Luke 17:1-2) ought to impress us with this need. However, we may rightly acknowledge our example and that of others is not always very consistent. We struggle and fall short of the standard we have been called to follow. But following that standard is to continue to be our aim. Even Paul wisely stated, "Be imitators of me, AS I AM OF CHRIST." ( 1 Corinthians 11:1) To be the most consistent example we can be our focus must remain on JESUS, the greatest and most consistent example God has provided.

Even as Jesus acknowledged the coming cross, He stated. . .
"(28) So Jesus said to them, 'When you have lifted up the Son of Man, then you will know that I am he, and that I do nothing on my own authority, but speak just as the Father taught me. (29) And he who sent me is with me. He has not left me alone, for I ALWAYS DO THE THINGS THAT ARE PLEASING TO HIM.' " ( John 8:28-29 ESV)

Three important things for us to center our own lives on can be drawn from this passage. First, our life must be based on the authority of the Father and not that of the world or our own desires. Secondly, it is the Father's Will and Word that needs to be on our lips. Thirdly, it is the Father Whom we are to seek to please above all else and at all times. More consistent compliance of life comes when we make life all about what God desires.

When life is most challenging it is easy to find ourselves faltering. However, Jesus gave us the example to "FOLLOW IN HIS STEPS" ( 1 Peter 2:21) even in the face of suffering. It can be challenging. We will find ourselves struggling at times. However, keeping our focus on Jesus -- our most consistent example -- the more success we will experience.

Have a great day LIVING FOR GOD FOR OUR SAKE AND THE SAKE OF OTHERS!
Carl

See other teEn-MAIL on Example