“Do as I say, not as I do.” I’m sure we are all quite familiar with that phrase. I often times find myself telling my kids, “No, you can’t get on your phone right now,” as I look up from catching up on Facebook, email, texts, etc. Our actions often speak much louder than our words. How we act and react throughout our days tells people much more about us than the words that we speak.

In Ephesians 5:1-2 we see God’s word tell us to be imitators of God. In contrast to “Do as I say, not as I do,” God tells us to do what he says AND do what he does. I love how The Message phrases these verses. “Watch what God does, and then do it, like children who learn proper behavior from their parents…Keep company with Him and learn a life of love. Observe how Christ loved us…He didn’t love in order to get something from us, but to give everything of himself to us.”

These verses remind me that I must not just teach and preach (to my children, friends, the lost), but also live and act in a way pleasing to God, so others may see God’s character and love. They also make me reflect on how much I have learned by watching my parents, not only as a child, but more importantly, as an adult. Finally, I’m reminded of the importance of staying in scripture, so that I may become a better imitator of God.

Pray:

Adoration: God is holy, mighty, gracious, and merciful. Spend time declaring your love for Him and expressing your thoughts of praise and worship.

Confession: Ask God to search your heart and reveal any areas of unconfessed sin. Acknowledge these to the Lord and thank Him for His forgiveness.

Thanksgiving: Express your thankfulness to God for the blessings He has given you. When we consider that we deserve punishment because of our sinfulness, and instead God gives to us His love and mercy, our only response should be one of thankfulness.

Supplication: Petition God for growth in your compassion and love toward others. Offer prayers for your loved ones and others who do not know Jesus and for those in need. Ask God to use you to tell others about Him and show His love. Offer prayers concerning your activities for this day and any special concerns you have.