Imitate what is good
3 John 1:11 Beloved, follow not that which is evil, but that which is good. He that doeth good is of God: but he that doeth evil hath not seen God.
As followers of Christ, we are to carefully choose what we emulate. Goodness is not just an abstract concept but a reflection of God's character. When we imitate what is good, we align ourselves with God's will and His nature.
To understand what is good, we must look to God, who is the ultimate standard of goodness. The Bible is replete with examples of God's goodness and the good He desires from us. In Micah 6:8, we are reminded, "He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God."
Goodness involves justice, mercy, and humility. It is seen in acts of kindness, love, and righteousness. Jesus, in His earthly ministry, exemplified this goodness perfectly. His life was a testament to love, compassion, and truth.
When we imitate what is good, we become vessels of God's grace and love in the world. Our actions have the power to influence and transform lives. Consider the story of the Good Samaritan. His act of goodness not only saved a life but also provided a powerful example of compassion and mercy.
In our own lives, the goodness we embody can be a beacon of hope and light in a dark world. It can inspire others to seek God and His righteousness. As Jesus said in Matthew 5:16, "Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."
John's exhortation also comes with a warning: "Do not imitate what is evil." In our world, evil often masquerades as good, and it can be easy to be led astray. We must be vigilant and rooted in the truth of God's Word to discern what is truly good and what is not.
Evil is anything that contradicts God's nature and His commandments. It brings destruction, division, and darkness. When we imitate evil, we distance ourselves from God and His blessings.
Lastly, it is crucial to remember that true goodness comes from God. As John writes, "Anyone who does what is good is from God." Our ability to do good is not from our own strength but from the Holy Spirit working within us. It is by staying connected to the vine, Jesus Christ, that we can bear good fruit (John 15:5).
In conclusion, let us always imitate what is good and also commit ourselves to daily seeking God's guidance, immersing ourselves in His Word, and allowing the Holy Spirit to transform us into vessels of His goodness.
God bless you.
Prayer key:
1. Lord, thank you for the blessing of your word today in Jesus Christ name.
2. Lord, grant us the grace to always imitate what is good always in our daily life in Jesus Christ name.
3. Lord, help us to yield to your guidance always and be obedience to your will in Jesus Christ name.
4. Thank you Lord for answered prayers in Jesus Christ name amen.