BE YE THEREFORE FOLLOWERS OF GOD, AS DEAR CHILDREN

 

September 22

 

Ephesians 5:1  

Be ye therefore followers of God, 

as dear children; 

 

The Lord proposes Himself to us as our pattern, and He gives grace to every one who desires it to imitate Him.
 
He exhorts us as His dear and tenderly beloved children, and in mildest strains proposeth Himself for our imitations.
 
Let us imitate the Lord in the world, dealing justly, ever acting from holy principles, and by a righteous rule;
adhering strictly to truth for our God is the GOD OF TRUTH;
choosing our company, being only familiar with them who are familiar with God;
and doing good to all especially unto them who are of the household of faith;
for He causes His sun to shine on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.
 
Let us imitate Him in the church, cultivating a spirit of love to all saints, notwithstanding their infirmities, exercising forbearance, and pity; being slow to anger and ready to forgive; accepting the will for the deed, and being always ready to help in trouble and distress.
 
Let us imitate our God, for He commands us; our relation to Him requires it; and our peace involved in it.
 
Imitations of God is sure evidence of saintship.
 

This will solve th’ important question,

Whether thou art a real Christian,

Better than each golden dream;

Better far than lip expression,

Towering notions, great professions;

This will show your love to Him.

 
James Smith