Be an example

"Always set a good example for others. Be sincere and serious when you teach. " Titus 2:7

In an effort to celebrate Christmas in July for a good cause, I was blessed to join with several other volunteers to host a six-hour event titled Ultra Sweaty Santa. And you know, not only did the participants of this race give their all in packing shoe boxes and collecting donations to benefit Operation Christmas Child, they gave their all out on the course-with record numbers of the runners stating that they went above and beyond the mileage they thought they could achieve Saturday. And the number one reason they did this I later learned? Because someone out there on the trail, either by words or actions, inspired them to keep going. 

And you know, whether you and I want to believe it or not, our conduct, whether good or bad, could most assuredly influence others to either follow the Lord or go astray from Him. The apostle Paul certainly understood this, urging Titus to "always set a good example for others" and to "be sincere and serious when you teach." He was reminding the overseer of the churches at Crete that he was to live out what he preached so that others would follow his lead and become more like Jesus by doing so. 

So I wonder today... if those around you were imitating your actions, would they be showing Christ-like behavior? I sure hope so my friend. Because you and I, as Christians, should be leading others closer to the Lord and not further away. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that our actions and speech have power. Help us to be good examples to those around us of what a good and faithful follower of Jesus Christ is that we might draw them closer to You. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

All in - Matthew West 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0RwDpnKIvUI