The other day as I was reading through the many blogs that I subscribe to, I ran across one that I want you to check out. Jesse does a great job in this video talking about behavior modification and self improvement. I was thinking about what he said as I was reading Ken Hemphill's book EKG: The Heartbeat of God.
In his book, Hemphill talks about emulating Jesus; taking on His characteristics as our own. This is the same message that I was getting from Jesse in his video. I know that we tend to think that it is impossible for us (mere mortals) to be like Jesus. That's not Biblical teaching. As a believer, we are empowered (one of Jesse's favorite words) by the Holy Spirit--we have the Spirit of the Living God within us. It becomes a matter of whom do we serve...God or self. The Bible teaches that we can't have two masters. Our problems come when we say that we want to serve God but our actions emulate our self-serving selves.
To apply Jesse's lessons to our Christianity, decide that you want to be like Jesus...then BE like Jesus. We could change the once popular What Would Jesus Do? (WWJD) to If I were Jesus, What would I do? Then do it! Assume the character of Jesus.
In Philipians, the Paul says that Jesus gave up the characteristics of God and took on humanity. The Bible also teaches that as believers, we are to set aside our old nature (humanity) and take on the characteristics of Jesus.
As a shout out to Jesse, I'm adding a link to his blog Living Infinitely in the blogs I frequent section. Do yourself a favor and bookmark or subscribe to his site. You'll be better for it.
John
John,
ReplyDeleteA tremedous post! A disciple is not above his teacher, but every one when he is fully taught will be like his teacher (Luke 6:40) You cannot do better then emulating God! If indeed we are created in the image and likeness of God then that is truely an "empowering" reality. Thank you very much for your kind endorsement - With your permission I would like to return the favor and add you to my favorites.
Jesse
Jesse, It would be an honor to be listed with your favorites!
ReplyDeleteBetween you and Jesse I am going to throw the covers over my head and hide for awhile. I guess I found your blogs for a reason-I need to get with the program. I do appreciate hearing this from you both.
ReplyDeleteNow remember, I'm a visual person when taking into account my description of Jesse's video. It was hard to watch. The up angle of the camera. The cluttered background. And his hands (he's a hand talker) coming in and out of the frame were really distracting.
ReplyDeleteRemember from your presentation course you took in school how they told you to not have distractions or your message would be lost? I got lost really quick.
I'm just trying to help. No really, trust me!