The Example of Christ

Posted on by Dennis Foote

Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry.

James 1:19 NLT

Prophets in the Old Testament spoke of a Messiah who would come and establish the Kingdom of God. Apostles in the New Testament, who were eyewitnesses to the life and ministry of Jesus, testified to what they saw and heard.

Today, we live in the Kingdom of God in the midst of a world in rebellion. Someday soon, Christ will return and destroy everything that doesn’t belong with Him in eternal Paradise. Heaven and Earth will pass away. There will be a New Creation. And sin will not be a part of it.

In this lifetime, we are learning what it means to walk with God. This is preparation for eternity. In God’s Kingdom, we must all be quick to listen. Observe what is happening in and around you.

We must be slow to speak. Process what’s happening with the Lord. We’re ambassadors of Christ, represent the Lord righteously. Say what the Holy Spirit gives you to say.

We must be slow to get angry. Remember, what people say and do is a reflection of who they are, not who you are. Don’t take things personally. Other people do not determine our value and worth. God determines our worth. He thinks we’re all worth being redeemed from the pit.

Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires.

James 1:20 NLT

God has a righteous anger at sin. God is patient. God has already pronounced judgement on sin. Sentencing day has yet to arrive. Don’t participate in sin. It leads to death. Participate in the life and ministry of Jesus. Let Him be Lord of your life. Do what the Lord tells you to do. Walk with God in the fellowship of the Holy Spirit.

The world does quite the opposite. It does not obey God. It refuses to listen to God’s Word. It is quick to speak a bunch of nonsense. It is quick to get angry when it cannot control you. The world and its ways are passing away. Don’t copy the world. Imitate God.

Prayer Points

  • Ask God to give you a gentle and humble heart.
  • Ask God to give you more self-control.
  • Thank God for progressively transforming you into Christlikeness.

Father in Heaven, thank You for the example of Christ. Thank You for the truth of Scripture which reveals Your heart and mission. Thank You for the Gospel which has the power to save us from living in darkness. Thank You for the Holy Spirit which gives us new life. May we abide with You, both now and forever. May we imitate the example of Christ and always obey our Heavenly Father. Amen.

Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children.

Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ. He loved us and offered himself as a sacrifice for us, a pleasing aroma to God.

Ephesians 5:1-2 NLT

Recommended reading: James 1 and Ephesians 5.