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.

This is certainly a statement of a man with a clear conscience. Many would hesitate to say such a thing, being aware of their own weaknesses. However, this wasn’t conceit on Paul’s part. He wasn’t perfect, as he so strongly stated in the previous chapter, (Philippians 3:12-14) but he was totally committed and submitted to God. He said something similar to this to other groups of believers as well, saying to the Corinthians, “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.” (1 Corinthians 11:1) We are blessed to have the Bible readily available to most people, but many things are best learned through following someone’s example, and we are called on to be that example to others. Of course, when Paul was writing his letters, not only did the New Testament not exist, books in general were rare and valuable, since hand copying was their only means of reproduction. That’s the basis for everything in this verse, since Paul was essentially their only source of information about Jesus and life in Him, apart from direct revelation by the Holy Spirit. Today, we can easily have the full Bible on our cell phones, but that doesn’t eliminate the need for practical examples. I’m reminded of the hymn. Let Others See Jesus in You. I find that an extremely practical, valuable song, right in line with this verse.

I have been blessed to have numerous excellent examples/role models in my life, starting with my parents. Whether I have been the same for others is for them, and God, to decide. As Paul said, God is my judge! (1 Corinthians 2:3-4) However, I am to live boldly as Christ’s witness by the power of His Spirit, just as He said, (Acts 1:8) and so draw people to Him. In Japan, a major issue is that people tend to admire me, but since I am Caucasian, they consider me to be other, and so don’t think they can, or even should, imitate me. I frankly don’t know what to do about that. All I can do is speak the truth in love, asking God to take that truth past the barriers the devil has set up and impart it into people’s hearts. When that happens, and sometimes it really does, they are set free indeed, (John 8:32) and that is absolutely glorious!

Father, thank You for the privilege of being a witness for Christ and an example for believers. May I continue to grow as Your child so that Your Word through me will be more and more clear and effective, for the blessing of many and for Your glory. Thank You. Praise God!