Good morning disciples of the Lord!
Hebrews 12:1-2 (NKJV) says,
- Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
JESUS IS OUR ROLE MODEL in life, especially when it comes to gaining victory over negative circumstances. People, no matter how strong they are, are not our standard.
A lot of people compare their experiences to the Apostle Paul and even though he overcame many trials, distresses, and tribulations, he ultimately isn’t our model, JESUS IS! We can be encouraged by what Paul went through because he said in 1 Corinthians 11:1,
- Follow me as I follow Christ.
Although Paul doesn’t instruct us to imitate his ways, he talke about imitating his ways in Christ Jesus. Paul states in Scripture that it’s JESUS Who is the Author and Finisher of our faith. JESUS IS OUR ROLE MODEL for successful living.
When we make JESUS OUR ROLE MODEL, the Holy Spirit stretches us to new levels of victory and success. So, what standard of victory should we expect as we live out our lives in and through Jesus?
- When Jesus lacked enough food to feed more than 5,000 people, He didn’t go to the local grocery store; He multiplied the food He had.
- When Jesus was in a terrible storm at sea, He didn’t believe God to survive the storm; He used His authority to command the storm to be still.
- When Jesus was taken to the edge of a cliff to be stoned, rather than believing God to survive the stoning, He confidently walked away to safety.
- When Jesus needed to get across the water, He didn’t believe God for a boat; He walked on the water.
Jesus used every trial He faced as an opportunity to set a standard of faith that you can follow. Through the cross, He made the way for you to live at the same level. All you have to do is believe!
Remember: It’s in Jesus that you live, move and have your being. He is your life’s and the length of your days.
I want to exhort you that you are able to walk in victory over every trial and circumstance that you may face because JESUS IS YOUR ROLE MODEL!
Living in Him,
Lisa Gordon
Assistant Pastor
Jesus City Church
Many people who are bitter towards God are really just upset with someone’s poor example of Christianity and they end up blaming God. So, indeed, we need to represent Him well.