JOHN SHIRK – In the Year of Vision, today’s 20/20 Insight focuses on the motivation of a godly example.

In Philippians 3:17, the Apostle Paul said, “Join together in following my example, brothers and sisters. And just as you have us as a model, keep your eyes on those who live as we do.”

If you think of someone who is a godly example in your life, you are probably thinking of someone with exceptional character qualities. They love Jesus and it shows in the way they live their lives and treat other people. They are grateful to God and serve others with an attitude of humility.  Observe how people like that live out their faith. They will motivate us to be faithful to God. As a mentor to others, Paul encouraged others to follow him as he followed Christ. 

Focusing on godly examples gives us greater clarity for living out the Christian life.

John Shirk

john@wjtl.com

JOHN SHIRK – From 2 Peter 1, verse 5 to 7.

For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control, and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love.

These are the qualities that reflect character development in the life of a devoted follower to Jesus. Many of these qualities are mentioned elsewhere as the fruit of the Spirit. Adding these virtues to our character can multiply opportunities to be a witness for Jesus. It was Jesus who took five loaves and two fish and multiplied them to feed 5,000 people. He can take what we offer Him, and multiply the impact.

Verse 8 says, “If you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

The Fruit of the Spirit is a vital sign of a changed life in the Year of Transformation.

John Shirk

john@wjtl.com