Walk This Way
2. We always thank God for all of you and pray for you constantly.
3. As we pray to our God and Father about you, we think of your faithful work, your loving deeds, and the enduring hope you have because of our Lord Jesus Christ.
4. We know, dear brothers and sisters, that God loves you and has chosen you to be his own people.
5. For when we brought you the Good News, it was not only with words but also with power, for the Holy Spirit gave you full assurance that what we said was true. And you know of our concern for you from the way we lived when we were with you.
6. So you received the message with joy from the Holy Spirit in spite of the severe suffering it brought you. In this way, you imitated both us and the Lord.
7. As a result, you have become an example to all the believers in Greece—throughout both Macedonia and Achaia. 1 Thessalonians 1:2-7
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“Monkey see, monkey do” describes the behavior of toddlers—and many grown-ups as well. Those with siblings especially pick up on new tricks and habits that they see brothers or sisters demonstrate. It’s cute to see, but it’s also scary for parents. They know that their children are watching them.
Paul understands this principle and has seen it applied in a more positive way. In this first letter to the church at Thessalonica, he commends the Thessalonians for their imitation of the one person everyone should strive to be like—Christ. In what ways do you imitate Christ?
When the Thessalonian Christians turned to Christ they were dramatically changed. They gave up their idols, began serving God, and eagerly awaited Christ’s return from heaven (1 Thessalonians 1:7-10). People soon noticed how they had changed, and news about them spread. No one could mistake the fact that these people believed in Jesus, because everyone could see their faith in action.
What was true then is also true now: If God is at work in your life, people will notice. Word will spread. People will see you doing “odd” things because you call Jesus Lord, and God’s influence will soon be obvious to all. Whether you regard this as a blessing or a curse depends on you.
Do not underestimate the influence your good deeds can have on others. If you serve Christ, others who see the difference in you will be influenced to love and serve Christ too.
