Becoming Like a ChildSample

Follow the example of your heavenly Father

“Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children.” (Ephesians 5:1)

Being a child of God is not the result of "doing what is right." It is a free gift of grace. But once we become children of God, this will show in our lives. The apostle John states that it is evident who are the children of God and who are the children of the devil, if we watch their lives. Those who do not practice righteousness and do not love their fellow believers are not of God, he says. For children of God become more and more like their Father, who is perfectly righteous and full of love. Believers are called to be “imitators of God” and to show the world what it is like to live in the light.

Of course, Christians can’t be “like God” in every aspect. They are humans. They are limited in their capabilities. They are still struggling with sin. But the overall picture of their lives will show that they do not live in spiritual darkness anymore and that they try to live according to God’s standards.

Can you see God’s light shine in people around you? And how about yourself?