An Example Worth Following

SCRIPTURE
Titus 2:7 in all things show yourself to be an example of good deeds, with purity in doctrine, dignified, 8 sound in speech which is beyond reproach, so that the opponent will be put to shame, having nothing bad to say about us. NAS

OBSERVATION

Do I provide an example of good deeds for others to benefit from? That's the question I had to ask myself when I read these verses. We are reminded in this book that God has designed us to affect others so we dare not live our lives as if we are on an island - unattached to people. The way we live our lives can be a positive influence if we live like Christ and seek to be and example. One person said that everyone is an example: some show us what to do and others what not to do. Which one are you? Paul tells us to be an example in the positive sense.

When I think of the term ‘example’ I am reminded of Baskin Robbins. Every time I visit that establishment, I am asked if I would like to ‘sample’ something. A ‘sample’ gives a taste of what you will receive if you decide to purchase the specific item. In similar fashion: to be an’ example’ shows people what will happen if they choose to follow. When you do good deeds for the right reasons, at the right time and in a right way, God can work through you and lead others to fruitfulness

APPLICATION

I really want these two verses to become a reality in my life. How about you?
May we not succumb to the old saying: Do as I say and not as I do - If we practice what we preach, no one will be able to point a finger at us or have anything negative to say. If we provide a positive example for others to follow, our opponent will experience defeat! That’s enough motivation for me!

PRAYER

O Lord show us how to live in such a way that will honor you and reveal your glory to others.