Example: June 23, 2011

JUNE 23 2011. TODAYS WORD FOR THURSDAY JUNE 23, 2011.

EXAMPLE

DEFINITION:

Something to be imitated or to be avoided; a pattern or model; an instance for illustration.

SCRIPTURE:

All these --- obtained a good testimony through faith. Hebrews 11:39

I am ready to preach the gospel to you. Romans 1:15.

“Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.” I Corinthians 11:1

KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE:

The redeemed sinners listed in Hebrews 11 (above) are all remembered for one common virtue --- great faith. They all obtained a good testimony through their faith. Long after their deaths, the record of their lives of faith and obedience still inspires us today. They were and are examples to be followed.

John Wilkes Booth’s place in history is that of a villain. He was an actor but became famous because he killed President Abraham Lincoln. After the south lost the civil war, Booth wanted to be remembered as its avenger against the north, but instead he is remembered as an assassin who killed an unarmed Lincoln with a gunshot to the back of the head. His example in history is that of a murderous coward.

In contrast Abraham Lincoln will be remembered as an example of a president who preserved the union, freed the slaves and exhibited malice toward none and charity for all. Few of us will have a recorded place in history as do Lincoln, Booth and those listed in Hebrews 11. But certainly we would want to be remembered as a good example like Lincoln and not as a bad example like Booth, but how much better to be remembered as a person of great faith like the faithful men of God in Hebrews 11.

The apostle Paul is an example of a man of great faith and a committed desire to spread the good news of the gospel. Paul also showed, by his example, that he believed in the power of prayer. In Romans 1:9, he says he remembered the people in the church in Rome always in his prayers. He was eager and ready to preach the gospel to them. By example Paul made it clear that he was not ashamed of the gospel he preached. He left for us a wonderful example of a life that honored God completely.

At the time Paul was teaching the Corinthians about Christ, the gospel had not been written. They only knew about Jesus Christ through Paul’s preaching. Paul followed the example of Christ, therefore, he could say to them, “follow my example.” If we want to be a good example for our children and family to follow, we must make sure we are following the example that Christ has given us.

We will leave memories for our families and hopefully a positive example to those who knew us. We desire only to be remembered for living a God fearing life and a life of faith and obedience to Him. What kind of an example will you leave on this earth? The memory of a godly life speaks more eloquently than words.

LEARNING:

Our memory verse for this week is found in James 1:19.

So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath.

PRAYER:

It is our prayer today that our family will be an example of You to those we meet. May others see clearly in us a love for You, a love for them and a love for Your Word. Give us strength to serve You and love You with all we have.