Imitator

What do you think is the best way to learn a new skill or become good at something that you don’t know much about? Is it to read about it, go on YouTube and watch it or maybe take a class? Each of these methods will be helpful and may be part of your path to learning what you need to know. But there is a better way to learn. Here it is. Find someone who is already proficient in the skill, someone who has been at it for a long time and has a proven track record. Get to know them and ask if they will teach you what they know. Why is this a better way to learn? Well, they have taken the knowledge behind the skill and applied it to everyday life and figured out what works well and what the pitfalls are. If you are patient and a good student you get to learn from their mistakes and you will get to learn some of the actions that make the skill easier. What I am basically telling you is to become an imitator of that teacher. Paul told us to do the same thing in our spiritual life. “Become imitators of us (Paul and Silas) and of the Lord.” If you are interested in deepening your relationship with God then look for someone who has been walking with God for a long time and has continued to grow, someone in whom the fruit of the Spirit is evident. Get to know them, ask them out for coffee, and have them tell you about their relationship with God. Ask them to speak truth into your life; learn from their good habits. Become an imitator of the one who is following Jesus. Allow their good example to stimulate and encourage you in your spiritual growth.

-Pastor Tim