The Pattern of Your Life
Sometimes the accounts of the faithful in the Bible can feel a bit intimidating. You may wonder if you will ever transform into a man or woman with godly influence. Maybe you feel that way when you read about the woman in Proverbs 31, or when you read about the life of Paul. Paul was Jesus’ “chosen vessel” to spread the Savior’s name “before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel” (Acts 9:15).
Of course, like any human being, both of these spiritual icons had emotional and spiritual struggles. They had seasons of strong belief, and moment of doubts and fears. But the pattern of their lives was one of obedience, consistency, and faith.
If people were to look at the pattern of your life or mine, what would they see? Are there any contradictions or inconsistencies?
If so, we are in good company—the company of the apostle Paul. Before his conversion to Christianity, Paul was a notorious persecutor of Christians. Even in the midst of his missionary journeys, he faced fears (Acts 14:6), unrelenting trials (2 Corinthians 12:7), and arguments with fellow believers (Acts 15:39).
But with God, all things are possible and redeemable (Matthew 19:26). He transforms believers into people whose lives have a lasting impact on others. But you must be willing to make some changes in your own life. If you want to see a change in others, you must begin with yourself. We see this affirmed in the following words, which appear on the tomb of an Anglican bishop at Westminster Abbey,
“When I was young and free, my imagination had no limits. I dreamed of changing the world. As I grew older and wiser, I discovered that the world would not change, so I shortened my sights somewhat and decided to change only my country. But, it too, seemed immoveable. As I grew into my twilight years, in one last desperate attempt, I settled for changing only my family, those closest to me, but alas, they would have none of it. And now as I lie on my death bed, I suddenly realize: If I had only changed myself first, then by example I would have changed my family. From their inspiration and encouragement, I then would be able to better my country, and who knows, I may have even changed the world.”
Ultimately, neither Paul nor the Proverbs 31 woman set out to change the world or be immortalized forever—they were intent on being faithful followers of the One, true, living God. Both made daily sacrifices and chose to obey, in ways both large and small. Their pattern of obedience and faithfulness brought them into His presence, and they are still an example of godliness to all believers today.
RESPOND:Lord, help me to live out my life with a pattern of steady faithfulness and obedience, influencing others as I follow You. Amen.
RENEWING RESOURCES:For more insight into navigating the choices before you in life, read my book, A Leader After God’s Own Heart.
REFLECT:Who are you striving to change, yourself or others?
Are there any areas of life where God is showing you a pattern of disobedience?
REMEMBER:You must be willing to make some changes in your own life if you want be a godly influence for others.
