Being an Example

Most of us would be reluctant to recommend ourselves as an example for others to follow. The Apostle Paul shows no such hesitation. "Brothers and sisters, join in imitating me, and observe those who live according to the example you have in us," he writes to the Christians in Philippi (Philippians 3:17). We need to examine the source of our reluctance. It may be our natural humility. Yeah right! Is it not more likely to be that we regard our behaviour as not meeting the standards required of one who is to set an example? And if not, why not? Surely those of us who have experienced the grace of Christ, who are being conformed to his image, should be setting an example of real Christian living for others to observe and emulate. False humility is an obstacle to mature Christian behaviour.