Struggle & Triumph: Taming the TongueSýnishorn

Mimicking Christ

Christians say things now and then that don’t reflect Christ’s love. It’s sad, but we’re human. Things fly out of our mouths without considering the long-lasting effects. Sometimes it comes from our hands and not our mouths. Believers post things on social media that are not glorifying to God. That’s confusing, knowing they have the ability to delete it but choose not to.

Thankfully we have a Father who is quick to forgive and filled with grace to help when we fail.

If only we could be more like the lyrebird of Australia. The song of the lyrebird is stunning. To attract a female, the male sings an unique song of his own chirps and other bird calls he’s heard. To up his game, he can even mimic sounds that humans bring into the forest—like cars, chainsaws, camera shutters, and even children laughing. The more sounds he can add to his repertoire, the better his chances at attracting a mate.

The amazing voice of the lyrebird reminds us of how we are to act as followers of Jesus. As believers, we are to copy Christ. That in turn will help steer the world to God. Pointing people to him is one of the things he commanded us to do as his children (Matthew 28:19).

The word Christian means one who follows or acts like Christ, but how often we fail to respond like Jesus would. Whether a driver cuts us off in traffic or we yell at a family member, it may not be an expletive, but things still fly out of our mouths that do not reflect God’s kindness or patience.

Mimicking our God is what attracts people to the gospel. May it be our desire to imitate the character of Jesus so our lives will be a sweet song to those in the forest of hurt and hopelessness.

Do you struggle to control your tongue? Ask God to help you edify others more by speaking life-giving words that reflect the character of Christ. Jesus said if you ask anything in his name he will do it for you (John 14:13-14).

Conclusion

Thank you for finishing our reading plan. Athletes in Action is a ministry of Cru dedicated to sharing the message of Jesus with athletes around the world. If you’d like to receive a devotional by Coach Rick Barnes, please check out this page.