In the spring of 2015, the president of a large Chinese conglomerate gave more than 6,000 employees an all- expenses-paid trip to France. The group’s itinerary included a private tour of the Louvre museum and a shopping session at a luxury department store. The gift was in celebration of the company’s 20th year of operation. And what a gift it was—4,760 rooms booked in 79 hotels, along with 146 tour buses rented! It’s safe to say that the president of the conglomerate gave his employees an amazing gift and a wonderful example of generosity to follow.
Hezekiah, one of the good kings of Judah, provided a stellar example for God’s people. As he initiated much-needed religious reforms for the Israelites, he led the way with their worship of God and giving thanks to Him (2 Chronicles 31:2). And although he required the people “to bring a portion of their goods to the priests and Levites” (2 Chronicles 31:4), he also generously “made a personal contribution of animals for the . . . offerings” (2 Chronicles 31:3).
It’s one thing simply to state what you feel is right and good to do; it’s quite another to sacrifice and actually live it out. Hezekiah lived it, breathed it, and did it! His life work “was pleasing and good in the sight of the Lord his God” (2 Chronicles 31:20). He wholeheartedly chose to “follow God’s laws and commands” (2 Chronicles 31:21)—paving the way for the Israelites to follow his example.
You and I are living examples to those around us each day. What are they receiving through our words and deeds? How are they seeing Jesus and His ways in our actions? The Lord told us to “seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously” (Matthew 6:33). Want to know how to do that? Follow Jesus! He’s our perfect example.
NLT 365-day reading plan passage for today: Judges 13:1-25
More:
Read Philippians 4:8-9 and consider what Paul said about the outcome of following his example.
Next:
Who has been a godly example for you to follow? What about their life reflects the words and actions of Christ?
BearPair on March 10, 2016 at 3:14 am
Excellent, Tom! Let’s walk the Talk… Thanks
Tom Felten on March 10, 2016 at 10:39 am
BearPair, I’m so grateful we have Jesus’ example and the indwelling Holy Spirit to help us do just that!
Gary Shultz on March 10, 2016 at 6:05 am
Many people I have admired are now home. One thing I have enjoyed recently is finding younger people who I see astonishing reflections of Christ. It is a delight to see that Spirit pulse in younger lives and many times they are an example to me. So I have learned to reach a little younger and bring my support to these people God has blessed with a purpose. May He be praised. Thanks Tom, WBP
Tom Felten on March 10, 2016 at 10:40 am
Appreciate your example of generously pouring into others, Gary! I’m sure they’ve been blessed by you.
gagirllive on March 10, 2016 at 7:40 am
I am drawn to people who are generous in spirit. It’s not the outward or material giving that attracts me but the way they genuinely care and demonstrate Christ -likeness…giving of themselves. I pray to be that person as well. Thank you, Tom, for this encouragement today.
Tom Felten on March 10, 2016 at 10:44 am
gagirllive, I think we’re drawn to people like that because the echo and reflect the beauty of God’s generous, compassionate presence. Yes, may all of us lavish His ways on others today as His Spirit guides us!
jim spillane on March 10, 2016 at 12:28 pm
Tom – those who are a Christ-like example to me are those who show true humility in all they do, those who have truly “counted the cost” and take up their cross daily. To them it’s Christ first, others second, and then they pick up what’s left over. I just wish that there were more people like them. God-willing, I can be one too, someday. Thanx and be blessed.
Tom Felten on March 10, 2016 at 2:59 pm
So well-stated, Jim. I’m blessed to know some people like that too!
elegantstarr1 on March 10, 2016 at 2:56 pm
Thank you Tom for that wonderful message. May God continue to bless you!