Daily Devotionals

Believe It Or Not Week 5: Wednesday

Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ. 1 Corinthians 11:1

Scripture makes it clear that we are called to look and live differently than the rest of the world. While we know this to be true, many of you may be wondering, “how?” That is a fair question. Understanding how we are called to live differently will help us know how to practically live as “strangers or aliens” in this world. There are, of course, several ways we are called to live differently, and one of these ways is with our lifestyle. We are called to live a lifestyle that looks more like Christ. 

The apostle Paul emphasized the importance of modeling our lives after Christ. He wrote in 1 Corinthians 11, “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ” (verse 11). At a glance, it may seem like Paul is trying to brag on himself. That would have been the case if he had only said, “follow my example.” Instead, he continued saying, “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.” Paul didn’t mind telling people to follow Him because He followed Christ. Ultimately, Paul was encouraging believers in this verse to follow the example of Jesus. This is what makes us stand out.

 One of my favorite descriptions of Jesus is in Philippians 2. It teaches us that He was humble, a servant, and He was loving. This example of humility, love, and kindness is the example that we are called to follow. Yes, it is very different from the rest of the world, which teaches us to look out for ourselves before anyone or anything else, but it is also a better way to live. When we serve others, we find purpose and life. 

Imagine if each one of us decided to follow Paul’s instruction in 1 Corinthians 11:1. What if we decided to model our lives after Jesus and how He lived? Imagine the impact that we could have on the world if we all modeled the love, humility, and kindness of Jesus.

Moving Toward Action

Read Philippians 2: 1-11. Make a list of what this passage of Scripture teaches us about Jesus. Then, choose one way you will follow His example. Before you continue with your day, pray that God will help you as you seek to follow the example of Christ.

Going Deeper

Philippians 2:1-11 (NLT)

Is there any encouragement from belonging to Christ? Any comfort from his love? Any fellowship together in the Spirit? Are your hearts tender and compassionate? Then make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose.

Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too.

You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had.

Though he was God,

he did not think of equality with God

as something to cling to.

Instead, he gave up his divine privileges;

he took the humble position of a slave

and was born as a human being.

When he appeared in human form,

he humbled himself in obedience to God

and died a criminal’s death on a cross.

Therefore, God elevated him to the place of highest honor

and gave him the name above all other names,

that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow,

in heaven and on earth and under the earth,

and every tongue declare that Jesus Christ is Lord,

to the glory of God the Father.

Dear friends, you always followed my instructions when I was with you. And now that I am away, it is even more important. Work hard to show the results of your salvation, obeying God with deep reverence and fear.