Imitate Me

“Therefore I urge you, imitate me.” (1 Corinthians 4:16)

Have you ever noticed how much we imitate others? Imitation starts in childhood and continues right through adulthood. Everything from what we wear to where we eat reflects our need to be like somebody else. “Keeping up with the Jones’” is a popular phrase to describe our desire and
aspirations to be better, or have more, even as we copy what others are doing or what they possess. It has been said by Dave Ramsey, “We buy things we don’t need, with money we don’t have, to impress people we don’t like.” We are unaware that we are continually being influenced and adapting our personality to the conformity of others. We do not realize that the things we do or wear or say is a result of imitating others. Paul understood these issues when he said to the Corinthians “imitate me.” They were living in the world and enjoying being of the world. Paul knew that they needed a living example to follow. He became their example, a real person from whom to watch and to learn. Paul also knew that their only hope was in Jesus. He was the One they must ultimately learn to imitate. 2 Corinthians 4:18 says that “we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal.” Our focus should only be on Jesus Christ our Savior. This world and all that is in it will someday be gone. Where will you be when this happens? Do you choose your friends wisely, those who set the example in Christ as Paul did? Or were you influenced more by the world’s temporary offerings, instead of Christ’s eternal promises? How accountable are you to set godly examples for those who are imitating you? Ask the Lord to help you become the role model and example that He wants you to be for others. His Holy Spirit will guide you in this role.