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“A Good Example”

Thoughts for Today:

In the news recently was the story of Diana Nyad, a 62 year old swimmer who abandoned her fourth attempt in 35 years to swim the 103 miles from Cuba to the coast of Florida. Her dream of setting a world record was spoiled by storms, jellyfish stings, shark threats, hypothermia, and swollen lips. Asked about her motivation, Nyad told reporters that she hoped to inspire people her age to continue pursuing their dreams. She said, "Instead of staying on the couch for a lifetime and letting this precious time go by, why not be bold, be fiercely bold and go out and chase your dreams?"

When I read Diana's story, I found some new inspiration for my own athletic endeavours. I'm a few years younger than she is, so why not try something new or push myself to a new level? Good examples encourage and motivate us into action. In my own life I've had plenty of great examples. My friend Jim is (and has been) a constant source of inspiration. Jim modeled his faith in the business world, and then at the pinnacle of his career left monetary reward behind to apply his gifts full time in ministry. He was the one who first challenged me to get involved in evangelism and mission work. Pastor Ty is another example; he always has the Word at the center of his thoughts. It doesn't matter whether we are playing golf, wake surfing or scuba diving -- our conversations regularly turn to Scripture.

It is the same concept Paul applies in our passage today: the Corinthians are instructed to imitate the Galatians. In other letters, the Corinthians are proposed as models for the Macedonians, and the Corinthians and Macedonians together for the Romans. Just like Jim and Ty have been models for me.

Questions to Ponder:

Paul did not avoid letting the churches know what others were doing. If he wrote about you, what good news would he have to report? Not how well your son is doing in math or your daughter's last dance recital, but your personal acts of faith. What have they been? What did you do last week to demonstrate your faith? What will you do today?

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About the author

Pocket Devotions are written by Mike Brooks. A retired businessman, he is Moderator of South Shores church, leads the Deacon Board, serves on the finance committee, and he teaches a Men's Bible study and the Men's Ministry. Mike has a passion for evangelical missions. He is the husband of Sherry; the father of Ryan, Natalie, Krissy, Rebecca, and Amanda; the father-in-law of Ariel; and the grandfather of Conner and Christian.