How can we "imitate what is good" in our daily lives? Key Verse “Beloved, do not imitate what is evil, but what is good. The one who does good is of God; the one who does evil has not seen God.” (3 John 1:11) The Call to Imitate Good • Scripture gives a direct, clear instruction: copy what is good, avoid what is evil. • Goodness flows from God’s own character; imitating good aligns us with Him. • Doing good serves as evidence that we truly “know” and have “seen” God. Patterns from Jesus • Ephesians 5:1-2 — “Be imitators of God… walk in love, just as Christ loved us.” • 1 Peter 2:21 — Christ left “an example” so we can “follow in His steps.” • Jesus shows goodness through: – Compassion for the hurting (Mark 1:40-41) – Truth-telling with grace (John 4:7-26) – Obedient humility (Philippians 2:5-8) Practical Ways to Imitate Good • Think on the right things (Philippians 4:8). • Speak words that build up, not tear down (Ephesians 4:29). • Demonstrate tangible love: – Share resources with those in need (1 John 3:17-18). – Offer hospitality without complaint (1 Peter 4:9). • Practice everyday integrity: – Honest work and fair dealings (Proverbs 11:1). – Refusing gossip or slander (Proverbs 16:28). • Walk in the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23): – Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Encouragement from the Early Church • Titus 2:7 — “In everything, show yourself an example by doing good works.” • Acts 10:38 — Jesus “went around doing good.” His followers did the same (Acts 9:36). Guarding Against Imitating Evil • Reject worldly patterns (Romans 12:2). • Expose deeds of darkness rather than partner with them (Ephesians 5:11). • Keep close, accountable fellowship with believers who pursue righteousness (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Test every influence—media, friendships, habits—by the truth of Scripture (Psalm 1:1-3). Putting It into Practice Today 1. Begin each day with Scripture, letting God’s Word set the tone. 2. Ask, “How can I reflect Christ to the next person I meet?” and act on the first prompting the Spirit gives. 3. Schedule regular service—volunteering, mentoring, giving—so goodness becomes a lifestyle, not a random event. 4. Celebrate testimonies of goodness in your home and church to reinforce what is commendable (Philippians 4:9). Conclusion Imitating what is good is a daily, deliberate choice rooted in God’s reliable Word. By fixing our eyes on Jesus, filling our minds with truth, and stepping out in Spirit-empowered obedience, we embody the good that proves we belong to Him. |
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