Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children. Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ. —Ephesians 5:1-2 NLT
Colonial Williamsburg sounds like a wonderful place to visit. My parents spent some time there last year and gave rave reviews. They enjoyed strolling through the beautiful gardens, marveling at the museums, and experiencing life as it was in the 1700s, on the cusp of the American Revolution.
Most impressive of all, however, were the special speeches they heard in the public squares. Professional impersonators of history-making figures, such as Patrick Henry (“Give me liberty, or give me death!”), gave performances that provoked and inspired their audiences. The impersonators they described reminded me of a personal experience I had years ago.
One Sunday morning, a missionary and his wife visited our church to give us an update on their work. The missionary was introduced by our pastor and invited to share a message with the congregation. I’ll never forget how he began his passionate sermon. His words seemed oddly familiar. It took me a minute to realize it, but then it dawned on me: he was reciting Scripture! He had completely memorized 1 Corinthians 4 and part of chapter 5. He spoke with such zeal and ease that I felt like that New Testament hero was in the room, speaking directly to us! He impersonated the apostle Paul, and it was captivating.
As Christians, we are called to imitate God (Ephesians 5:1). Just as the impersonators in Williamsburg cause their audiences to believe they are the very men they portray, we should portray Christ to the world around us through our words and actions. Like the missionary who passionately recited Scripture, we should speak life and love to our family, friends, and neighbors, out of a heart that wants others to really know Christ.
To live like Jesus is to live a selfless life. In moments when self-centeredness wants to take control, let’s ask ourselves: What would Jesus do? The night He was betrayed, knowing His death was imminent, His greatest concern was for His disciples. He washed their feet, prayed for them, sang a hymn with them, pleaded fervently with His Father, and then, ultimately, submitted to His Father’s will. Just think of all the things Christ didn’t do when He was tired and under stress! We are called to be like Him.
That’s a pretty high calling, but thankfully, we aren’t asked to do it alone. When we are born again, Christ places His Spirit in us to help us. As genuine children of God, He lives in us, empowering us to do His will—when we let Him. Let’s choose to submit and allow the Spirit of Christ within us to reign, especially in our weakest moments. Let’s pray for strength and resolve anew to live like Christ, shining in a world that so desperately needs Him.
How are you doing? In what area of your life today can you let go of your own desires, and let God use you to be His holy impersonator?
Father, I surrender the areas of my life where you are not in control. Shape and refine me into your image. Fill me afresh with your Spirit, so that I may love others as you do. May others see You in me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
In His love,
Brittany Anderson
Sweet Selah Ministries
Vision
To inspire a movement away from the belief that “busy is better”
and toward the truth of God’s Word that stillness and knowing
Him matter most—and will be reflected in more effective work and service
Mission
To offer biblical resources and retreats that help women pause (Selah)
and love God more deeply as they know Him more intimately (Sweet)
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