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August 10, 2009 - Imitators

"Therefore, be imitators of God, as beloved children" - Ephesians 5:1.

I love the words of St. Francis of Assisi, "Go preach and when necessary use words."  Modeling God's kindness through practical acts of love is always a good thing to do.  Let's be imitators of His grace, mercy, goodness, compassion and character. 

The thoughts below are courtesy of our friends at Crown Financial Ministries. 

In Ephesians 5:1 Paul commands us to be imitators of God. What does it mean to be an imitator of God?

The verses that follow give us several insights.

1. We are to love one another. Christ is the supreme example of sacrificial love. "Walk in love, just as Christ also loved you, and gave Himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God as a fragrant aroma" Ephesians 5:2. An imitator of Christ is a lover of people.

2. Live a Holy life. Verses 3-5 command us not to be immoral, impure, greedy, or one who uses coarse language. Are you committed to turn away from any such sins?

3. Know God's Word. Ephesians 5:6-8 warns us not to be deceived by empty words. The most effective way to avoid deception is to be a student of God's Word. By this we can know the will of God and do it.

Walk in love, avoid sin, and spend time in God's Word. These are disciplines that will help you become an imitator of God.