Scripture to Read: John 13:16–17
Jesus finished His teaching on being a servant by saying in John 13:16–17, “Truly, truly, I say to you, a slave is not greater than his master, nor is one who is sent greater than the one who sent him. 17 If you know these things, you are blessed if you do them.” No matter what title the world has given us, none of us is better than anyone else. In God’s eyes, we are His children and we are to imitate Him. God tells us in Ephesians 5:1, Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. When we consider what imitating God looks like, we must examine more of His Word. Jesus tells us in Matthew 5:48, “Therefore you are to be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.” We must walk in obedience to our Lord to live a life that’s worthy of Him. Jesus also tells us in Luke 6:36, “Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.” We are to show everyone the same kind of mercy that our Lord shows to us on a daily basis. Then God tells us in Ephesians 4:32, Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you. We are to show others the same kindness, tender-heartedness, and forgiveness that our Lord shows us every day of our lives. Knowing God’s Truth is not enough—we must live His Truth—that is why Jesus said that the ones who are blessed are the ones who DO His Word.
Challenge & Application
• What does your life look like when you think about being an imitator of God?
• What areas of your life need to be fully surrendered to our Lord so that you are imitating Him in all areas of your life?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!