Imitate

"Even as I try to please everybody in every way.  For I am not seeking my own good but the good of many, so that they may be saved. Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ” 1 Corinthians 10:33-11:1

“Therefore I urge you to imitate me.” 1 Corinthians 4:16

I think it is incredible that Paul is able to say “imitate me.” I can’t imagine coming to a place where I am able to say ‘hey guys, do what I do because I live and act like Christ does.’
In the Philippines, I lived with 29 girls that I was supposed to encourage, love, and disciple; because of this, the Lord taught me a whole lot about living a life that is worthy of imitation.  It seems like every day I was reminded of it.
 
One of my closest friends on this trip and my teammate, Rebekah, encouraged me soooo much as I was talking to her about Paul.  As we talked, the Lord reminded me of the standards we have to live by. The Bible calls us to a life that desires nothing for you, but a life committed to serving others; a life putting others first in order to bring glory to the Lord.  The reality is that there is no other option, but the good news is that we will be blessed. From what I have experienced so far, living a life that the Lord calls you to live daily is a really great decision.
 
“Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” Ephesians 5:1
 
So here I go on this journey of living for others, living a life worthy of imitating, and serving others not for me but for the Lord.  Ultimately, living for others spreads the love of Jesus everywhere, to everyone around you, and then God gets the glory, and people around you are changed. I just want everyone to live like this so bad! I pray for it to happen all the time! It is hard, but right and awesome and good. So lets doooo it.
 
“May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.” Psalm 19:14
 
That is my prayer; that I will be pleasing in the sight of the Lord. I pray that you will do the same!