And so you became a model to all the believers in Macedonia and Achaia. The Lord’s message rang out from you not only in Macedonia and Achaia—your faith in God has become known everywhere. 1 Thessalonians 1:7-8 NIV

Pam and I had been married for less than two years when I interviewed for a part time youth minister position. We met in the choir room in which all of the chairs were stacked against the wall, except for the nine interviewer chairs. They formed one row all facing the one seat which I sat in to be interviewed. I was nervous.

Lots of questions were asked nearly 30 years ago, but one remains. “As you were growing up, did you have anyone who looked up to you?” I thought of one example and then said very clearly, “I have never considered myself to be a ‘mole rodel’”. Laughter erupted. I recovered and said, “And I never intend to be one now,” I got the job.

Transformed lives are worth talking about. Many people start their ministry after experiencing the joy and freedom that accompanies a transformed life. We travel a great distance to listen to a testimony of a changed life that Jesus made. We make movies and write books of people like Nicky Cruz (gangster turned Christian) in the Cross and the Switchblade.

We also honor those who chose or endured a life of suffering for Jesus’ sake. Corrie Ten Boom made it through the Nazi concentration camp watching her sister die of starvation, and God placed within her a tangible forgiveness. Mother Teresa was most comfortable living with the poor and destitute. She experienced a kinship with Jesus reaching out to those who are overlooked.

People listen to stories, real ones, of people you know that have made radical confessions of faith. It plants a seed in their heart. “If God can truly change that person’s life, maybe there is hope that He can change my life also?”

  • Do you personally know someone whose life was transformed by the gospel of peace?
  • When was the last time that you honored someone who model’s the Christ life, by sharing their story with someone else?
  • Of the 5 most influential people in your life, how many reflect the Christian value of sacrifice and transformation?
  • What is your definition of a good Christian role model? How many of these characteristics are true of your life?

All of the disciples were ordinary men with no titles or prestige, yet we are still talking about them today. Concentrate on obedience to the leading of the Holy Spirit in every aspect of your life. Humble obedience is worth emulating. It points toward God’s goodness and kindness in leading our lives.

Blessings Love y’all