It Takes Time
September 22, 2015//
Topics to Dig Into
Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are His dear children.Ephesians 5:1(NLT)
I’ve been told that I’m becoming like my mother. As a teenager, this was an offensive statement, but now I consider it a compliment.
As is bound to happen in a church community, I often teach my friends’ children and find it fun to see a parent mirrored in their student. While genetics determines their physical likeness, I’m amused by their facial expressions, hand movements, ideas and their choice of words. Without realizing it, or wanting to, children imitate their parents.
Children adopt characteristics over time by observing behavior.
This is the kind of imitation mentioned in today’s verse from Ephesians. Imitate God as a child imitates a dear parent. To do this requires spending lots of time with Him – living our lives in His presence.
We need to read scripture and observe His creation, which both reveal the Father’s character. We need to study Jesus’ life since He was God in human form. We need to spend time in prayer listening to His promptings.
Just as young children intentionally copy their parents, wanting to shave or cook, initially we must work at imitating our Father. However, as time goes on, these characteristics will become part of us and our actions, desires, and words will mirror His.
By reading Seeds of Scripture, you’re already learning about God’s character and expectations. Keep reading this devotion (or any other) regularly and stay in His presence all day by contemplating His Words.
What do you know about God? How can you imitate that?
#SeedsOfScripture #InHisPresence #intentional
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Spend a few minutes to plant a quick Seed. Or stay longer and plant a whole garden.
Great post. I see a loving merciful Abba. May I imitate that daily. Thank you for this.