JOHN SHIRK – Today’s Key Element for Thriving Relationships is Learning from the example of others.
Take note of the consequences of bad decisions, and the fruitfulness of good decisions. This will help us grow in the way of wisdom, and give us discernment when choosing friends.
In First Corinthians 10, Paul wrote about the experiences of the Israelites in the days of Moses. The people of that time committed idolatry, indulged in revelry, engaged in immorality, and grumbled against God. Verse 6 says, “These things occurred as examples to keep us from setting our hearts on evil things as they did”.
A positive view of learning is found in the example of Paul the Apostle. He wrote in Philippians 4:9, “Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me-put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.”
Learning from the Example of others is a key element for thriving relationships that honor God.
John Shirk
john@wjtl.com
JOHN SHIRK – Today’s Key Element for Thriving Relationships is being a godly role model.
Sometimes, people hear that phrase, and dismiss the idea that they could ever be one. A role model is not perfect. The only perfect role model is Jesus Himself.
A role model can be defined as someone who is seen by others as an example to be imitated. Paul the Apostle served as a role model when he said in First Corinthians 11:1, “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.”
Godly role models serve as an inspiration to motivate others to be more like Jesus. God can work through our conduct, our attitudes, our words, and our faith, to be a godly influence in our world. This happens in our lives as we look to the example of Jesus and follow Him.
Being a Godly Role Model is a key element for thriving relationships that honor God.
John Shirk
john@wjtl.com
JOHN SHIRK – Today’s Faith-Building Verse is Joshua 24:15.
Joshua motivated the Israelites to follow the LORD by his example.
He told them, “As for me and my household, we will serve the LORD.”
Joshua’s faith spoke through his commitment and strong example. He was consistent in taking courageous steps forward as he was led by God. His integrity made him a credible voice to guide a nation toward devotion to God.
The people responded with these words, “Far be it from us to forsake the LORD to serve other gods.”
Israel served the LORD throughout the lifetime of Joshua and of the elders who outlived him. This is the kind of impact that is possible when our life speaks with devotion to God.
This Faith-Building Verse inspires us to lead with a godly example in the Year of Relationship.
John Shirk
john@wjtl.com
JOHN SHIRK – In the Year of Vision, today’s 20/20 Insight focuses on the importance of integrity.
In First Corinthians 11:1, the Apostle Paul said, “Follow my example as I follow the example of Christ.”
As a leader in the early church, Paul understood the importance of setting a good example for others to see. He also understood that in order to be a godly example to others, he needed to follow the example of Christ. That is how we can be a credible witness for Jesus. Live the life that God has called us to live.
Paul said to Timothy on one occasion, “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.”
Focusing on the importance of godly integrity gives us greater clarity for living out the Christian life.
John Shirk
john@wjtl.com
JOHN SHIRK-Today’s Relationship-Building Principle comes from First Timothy 4:12.
“Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith, and in purity.”
This message was from the Apostle Paul to Timothy, who was a younger leader in the church. Timothy may have been in his mid-30s or even younger when this letter was written to him. But Paul did not see his young age as a barrier to ministry if his character was effective in representing Jesus Christ. Age is not a barrier if a church leader lives under the influence of Jesus Christ, and demonstrates leadership guidelines found in the Bible.
Paul was emphasizing the importance for leaders to be an influence through godly character, in our words, conduct, expressions of love, and deeply held convictions about Jesus.
In First Timothy 4:16, Paul said to Timothy, “Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers.”
Setting an example of godly character is a vital relationship-building principle to take to heart in the Year of Connection.
John Shirk
john@wjtl.com
JOHN SHIRK – It happened the night before Jesus was crucified. He grabbed a basin and a towel. He knelt down to serve the disciples by washing their feet.
In this simple act, Jesus taught us that service is an act of humility. Jesus literally lowered Himself to serve the disciples as He washed their feet. If Jesus was willing to do that, then none of His servants are so great that they are above performing acts of service that can help others in practical ways.
Jesus said to His disciples in John 13:14, “Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. I tell you the truth, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. Now that you know these things, you will be blessed if you do them.”
The washing of the disciples’ feet is an example of service taught by Jesus and is a lesson of faith worth remembering.
John Shirk
john@wjtl.com
