These things happened to them as examples and were written down as warnings for us, on whom the culmination of the ages has come. (1 Corinthians 10:11)
Make no mistake about this biblical truth – your life . . . my life . . . everyone’s life . . . will serve as either an example to follow or a warning to avoid. As a coach for decades, I have always been amazed at this statement from high-profile athletes, “I am not a role model!” The truth is, they may not want to be a role model, but they are for someone who is watching. The same can be said for everyone who professes faith in Jesus Christ.
Did you know that you are the only “Bible” some people will ever read. They know nothing about the 66 books of sacred Scripture. But they know much about the life they see you living before their eyes. And because you are a disciple of Jesus, the way you live is what they come to know about the Jesus of the Bible. So, the question that needs to be asked is this: “Is your life serving as an example to follow or a warning to avoid?”
Now let me make something perfectly clear. I am not speaking about living a perfect life. Only Jesus did that. We live every aspect of our lives imperfectly. We all do things we ought not do; say things we ought not say; and think things we ought not think. But what I am talking about is the desire to live a life that is pleasing to God, knowing it will not be perfect on this side of the grave.
Peter’s life was far from perfect, having denied our Lord three times and refusing to eat with Gentile Christians. Yet, the life Peter lived serves as a wonderful example of what it means to live for nothing smaller than Jesus, yet living it imperfectly. Every great saint in Scripture and in the history books have their share of blemishes and warts for all-the world to see. But that just makes them more real to us. Even when others don’t see our short-comings, we know they are there. We know when we do not measure up. But, in spite of our imperfections, God has chosen us to put the gospel on display. Remember, God uses imperfect people because that’s all He’s got.
So, have you considered the example you are setting for those who are watching you? When you mess it up, confess it and ask for forgiveness . . . from God and those you might have offended or hurt. Then get on with life and live it, as much as it is within your power, for the good of others and the glory of God. Everyone is an example – including you?
This is the Gospel. This is grace for your race. NEVER FORGET THAT . . . AMEN!
Grace for the Race 