20 July | Youth
«Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ.» 1 Corinthians 11:1
The Bible teaches us lessons of salvation through both good and bad examples. The good inspire us to do better, to depend more on God, to desire Heaven. The bad, in turn, encourage us to consider our actions, to avoid mistakes and undesirable situations. Cain, Achan, Haman, Lot's wife and many others who had their history recorded in the Bible are part of this group. They are counterexamples, or negative examples. But what about those whom the Bible describes as “heroes of faith”? After all, are they worthy of imitation?
No woman or man is a 100% perfect model to be followed, except Jesus. Even the best examples are like broken mirrors in repair, that is, people who show us the wonderful way in which God works, in order to give us hope of transformation (Rom 15:4). Therefore, you need to stop using the attitudes of imperfect people around you (or in the Bible) as an excuse to sin. If you think drinking wine is cool, please do not say you believe it because Noah got drunk, or because Paul advised Timothy to use wine to treat his stomach. If you want to adopt polygamy as a lifestyle, please do not use the cases of Abraham, Jacob, David, or Solomon as an argument to defend your choices. You would do better to meditate on the terrible consequences of their thoughtless actions.
The direction your life takes is your responsibility. When it comes to excuses, we cannot blame that God allowed this or that to the “heroes of faith.” Be honest with yourself. Instead of looking for excuses, recognize your weaknesses. Do not think that God will force you to do everything He wants. Nor think that His silence is approval of your conduct. Strive to understand Him, love Him and serve Him on His terms; not in yours. This is growing in faith. This is being like Jesus.
When we model ourselves on others, we run the risk of becoming stunted instead of growing in faith. Do not fall into that temptation. It is like shooting yourself in the foot. Accepting Christ and remaining in Him is what allows you to be saved. It is a gift you and I do not deserve.
However, growing in Christ, mirroring Him, is the challenge that the Lord makes to those who wish to experience salvation, and not just receive it and keep it in the closet. Abandon excuses and follow Christ's example. Do not hold on to what you left behind. Christ is leading, and the example He left for you to follow will enable you to live in Heaven!