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Imitation: The Sincerest Form of Faith

Ephesians 4:29-32 Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them.

And do not bring sorrow to God’s Holy Spirit by the way you live. Remember, he has identified you as his own, guaranteeing that you will be saved on the day of redemption.

Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you. (NLT)

     I loved the way the New Living Translation phrased this scripture. It is yet another reminder of the lifestyle that we should be leading as followers of Jesus Christ. Sometimes we forget what we stand for and what the whole point of life is. We are to be emulating Jesus and spreading the news of Him to those who have yet to experience it.

    Part of looking like Jesus is our words. We shouldn't be talking bad about others, being over critical of them, insulting them, etc. Instead we should be building one another up and encouraging them, Christian or not. That is the love of Jesus. Verse 30 goes on to say that we actually grieve the Holy Spirit in the way we  live when we don't live by God's word. Have you ever seen someone you love making a mistake that you knew would harm them, and after you warned them, they still did it? It causes you pain to know that they will suffer. That's how our Heavenly Father looks at us. It hurts Him to see us make decisions that are going to hurt us, especially when He has given us His word to keep us on track.

    Also, we have to remember that we are identified as His children. He chose us and we are supposed to be different from the world. A big part of that is acting like it! Imitate Jesus as you go out into the world and interact with others that may not know Him yet. Pay attention so that you may build them up and show them the pure love of Christ.

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