Imitating Jesus

“Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children.” – Ephesians 5:1 

When you live your life in the light, the Bible says your life will look different than those living in darkness. So, the question is, how do we live our lives in the light? 

In order to walk in the light, you must imitate Jesus and walk in love. Ephesians 5:1 says, “Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children.” I’ve often heard that imitation is the greatest form of flattery, but I believe it is more than that. Imitation is also one of the greatest ways to learn.  

A few months ago, I went fly-fishing for the first time. I quickly learned that fly fishing is much different from bass fishing. I can cast an open-faced reel with the best of them, but fly fishing is a completely different ballgame. 

So do you know what I did? I hired a guide. I spent six hours on a boat with this guy, and I wore him out with questions. He would cast his line, and then I’d do my best to cast my line. He would throw it out just perfectly, and then I’d throw my line into a tree. This went on for hours. But you know what? By the end of the day, I was fly fishing.  

In Ephesians 5:1, Paul tells us—if you are going to walk in light—you’ve got to imitate Jesus. Why? Because Jesus will teach you how to fish! He will also teach you how to walk and talk and live in the light. 

It is impossible to live in the light without Jesus. Do you know why? Because we were all born into darkness. We live in a dark world. 

But never forget that in the midst of that darkness, Jesus sent us the light of the world. And now, as a result, you and I have the privilege of imitating Jesus, demonstrating His love, and walking in His light. 

How can you live more like Jesus? Watch Him. Study Him. Read His Word. Talk to Him. Listen to Him. The only way to learn God’s voice is to listen to His voice. And the only way to imitate Jesus is by following Jesus. 

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bible verse

“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”

Isaiah 41:10 (NIV)

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