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

Ephesians 5:1 (NLT)

 

All the heroes and great men and women of Bible were flawed individuals who God used to impact generations and nations. While the Bible highlighted or hinted at their sinful failures and failings, we should not use them as examples to justify or perpetuate sin. Rather as God’s beloved children, we must learn to imitate our Father God in everything we do.

What does it mean to be imitators of God?

Because we are made in His image and likeness, our choices and actions must reflect God's glory and beauty. It is not about being perfect, without any flaw or error, but rather about being honest and true with oneself and those around us. Knowing that "we have passed from death to life" requires us to discard the habits of our old nature while developing the identity and character of our new nature in Christ. We should carry ourselves in the best way we can, avoid causing others to stumble, and make excuses for our bad behaviour. So, when people see us, they see God in us.

Again, we need the Holy Spirit to help us to walk in godliness and live in a manner worthy of our calling. This requires faith, humility, and obedience. God does not expect you to meet a standard of perfection through your own effort. Rather God expects you to trust Him to complete what He has begun in you (Philippians 1:6). When your faith seems weak and the joy of salvation has faded, the good news is that God never stops loving you and knows how to get you through the storms and whirlwinds of life. Just keep responding to His leading, for He knows the way to life and abundance.