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"Live an exemplary life." (1 Peter 2:12, The Message).
The word exemplary means "serving as a commendable pattern to be imitated." No pressure here, but may I ask what about your life as a follower of Jesus would others say is exemplary? If the question leaves you a bit unsettled that's a good thing. Because it shows that you at least care.
Some of us squirm out of false humility. "Aw shucks," we reply, "why, golly, there's nothing in me that even comes close to being like Jesus." Oh, grow up!
Others of us squirm for more substantial reasons. We know two things. One, we are called to something better. And two, we are settling for less.
Peter said, "Friends, this world is not your home, so don't make yourselves cozy in it. Don't indulge your ego at the expense of your soul." (1 Peter 2:11).
Jesus wants to fill us each with His spirit, thereby making our lives exemplary. He wants us to be good friends, good parents, good neighbors, good employees, good employers, good people. So good, in fact, that even those who otherwise oppose us cannot help but commend our lives.
This is do-able. So. let's do it!
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