I used to go to the local bay and fish off the jetty there. I don’t think I ever caught anything even though I’d tempt the fish with tasty bait or wiggle the hook in the middle of their schools. I think the main reason I caught nothing was the fact that I was impatient and kept trying to force the matter.
Jesus told his disciples that he would make them fishers of men. He taught them to spread the good word of the gospel just as he teaches us. You and me. Jesus didn’t use hooks or bait. He didn’t try to force anyone to make the leap of faith. Instead he used himself as an example to others. And that is what his disciples did also.
So too we are to be living examples. To live our lives as Christ would. To be kind and loving. To show our love for others. Not to judge, but to be self controlled. When we do this we won’t need the hooks or the bait. God will shine through us and others will see His glory.
To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps 1 Peter 2:21 (NIV)
What are some things you do to be a living example for Christ?
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19 comments:
To show our love for others. Not to judge, but to be self controlled. When we do this we won’t need the hooks or the bait. God will shine through us and others will see His glory.
I pray that others would see Him shining through this broken vessels.
Thanks for your kind comment about my blog. I thought it might be time to update. :)
Blessings,
Tammy
Tammy, that is my prayer as well. I hope that I honour Him in everything I do.
me too guys...I want this too and Lynda it's so weird. I've been praying...God remember your promise to make me a fisher of men and poof...your post. thank you.
Oh, Lyn...I want to shine His love, too...but I know there are times I don't...or the light is so dim, others can't see Him in me...
When I spend more time with the Lord...in His presence...consuming His word...His light shines brighter in my life...and He helps me to see the lost as hurting children...just trying to find their way home....
Very well said!
I want to bring honor to
the Lord in every area of
my life, too. I want to
be an encourager and a
witness of His goodness.
I try to be real. There are enough Christians pretending they have it all together. I figure the church doesn't need another one :)
Great post.
AMEN!!! Thanks Lynda. Loving the blinkie on my side bar. I don't miss a thing.
~blessings
Dorcas
My father was a wonderful Christian but an absolutely dismal fisherman of real fish. It made for some funny stories and fishing equipment that ended up in our storage shed. But he sure knew his Bible and he sure could preach. He should have been an evangelist. I hope I've set some kind of memorable example for my own kids that will keep them turning towards Jesus.
Lee
Tossing It Out
Sarah, this has been happening a lot lately. God's power never ceases to amaze me.
Karen, we all sometimes fail to shine for God, but truly, it's God's power that shines, not ours, and His power is unstoppable. We are blessed when we allow His light to shine through us and allow Him to work through us.
Tabitha, Jesus warned us that His way will not always be happy happy rainbows and sunshine. Why we often pretend, I don't know. Honesty is far more valuable.
Arlee, thanks for sharing that beautiful testiment about your father. Because we often look up to our parents they make important role models, just as we are examples to our children. I don't doubt you have made a lasting -- and good -- impression on your children.
I try to show patience and listen to people. And do the right thing even when it's not convenient.
That's a big one Alex...doing the right thing even when it's an inconvenience :)
Yes living a life before people, so they can see God in me. That is what I try to do...yes fishing is a good one
kim
Kim, it's not always easy, of course, but neither was Jesus' life :)
Lyn this is so very true and what is needed. Thank you for sharing. Blessings.
I love that about Jesus. He never begged us to love Him. I guess we wouldn't beg anyone to love us either. We just want them to love us, and so does He.
I have someone VERY CLOSE to me who isn't a believer. Sometimes I find myself trying to do everything I can to get this person "hooked" and "in the boat!" But God is the only One who can woo a person to Himself.
Please pray that I will be a living example of Christ's love...and pray for this person's salvation.
Thanks! GOD BLESS, Lyn!
Sharon, it's so hard when we love someone who isn't a believe because we want the best for them. We know that Christ is the best, but they don't know that yet. I have to regularly remind myself that all things are possible through Christ.
I will pray with you that prayer - to be a living example and for that person's salvation.
Blessings,
Lyn
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