II Thessalonians 3:9
“not because we do not have the right to this, but in order to offer ourselves as a model for you, so that you would follow our example.”
Paul saw the importance of his life being an example to those whom he came in contact with. They may have been close to him, those in the body where he ministered or those whom he sought to persuade in the community.
In II Timothy 2:2 Paul comments about discipleship, “The things which you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses, entrust these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also. Just as messages are passed on through discipleship, so can our example.
The Lord says that we are cities on a hill. (Matthew 5:14). Many don’t hear our words, but more see our examples. We all go through difficult times. Those that watch see how a Christian is to go through hard times.
It’s been said that “The same sun that hardens clay, melts butter”. Our hearts are either hardened or softened through difficult times. The believer is to trust the Lord with life’s circumstances. This is evidenced by a thankful heart. How we respond and live through trials are the “city on a hill”.
What is the message that our examples are to deliver? God will personalize that differently to the watcher. II Corinthians 2:15 generalizes it this way, “For we are a fragrance of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing.” Much like a perfume gives off a pleasing scent, so our examples are to emit the fragrance of Christ.
Lord, help us to be good examples. Help us to yield to You, so we can be the fragrance of Christ.