Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as ye have us for an ensample.
-Philippians 3:17
I remember basketball player Charles Barkley saying he didn't want to be anyone's role model. Whether or not he wanted to be a role model, young people did look at him as an example to follow. His high-profile status insured that some would want to try to be like him. Sadly, he wasn't the best example to follow.
While Barkley discouraged others from following him, the apostle Paul encouraged people to follow him. The difference lay in the fact that Paul knew he lived a life worthy of following. People could follow Paul because he followed Jesus.
What Barkley and others fail to understand is that we have no choice in whether or not we are role models. We can't stop others from trying to follow us. However, we do have a choice in what type of example we show to others.
What type of role model are you? Are you following Jesus in such a way that people can see your example and follow Jesus too? Would you be confident enough in your daily walk with Christ that you wouldn't hesitate to have others follow your lead?
As I look at my own life, I readily admit that there's room for improvement. As I make changes in my life, not only will I grow closer to God, but I will also be a better example to others.
Is there room for improvement in your life? Take some time this week to evaluate what kind of example you're showing to others. Are you spending time in reading the Bible and prayer? Are you showing love to those around you? Can others rely on you? Are you trying to be like Jesus?
If changes need to be made, ask God for strength and guidance to make them. He will enable you to be an example worth following.
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