Be like Mike

TODAY'S READING: 1 Thessalonians 4:1-8
I remember the ad slogan "Be Like Mike" that was so big during the height of Michael Jordan's career. Because of Jordan's incredible basketball talent, marketers used his popularity to sell their items. They tried to convince everyone to drink what Mike drinks, wear what Mike wears, and strive to be like Mike.
The basic message of this passage is "Be Like God." We are called to live in holiness and honor. God wants us to become more like Him. Paul wrote to the church in Rome, "Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will know what God wants you to do, and you will know how good and pleasing and perfect his will really is." (Romans 12:2)
As followers of Jesus, we must make an effort every day to think more like God. And the more we think like God the more godly our lives should look.
So what does a godly life look like? In this letter to the Thesslonicans, Paul describes it as control over our passions. And from what Paul says, this control will only result when we know God. Not just a knowledge of God, but a relationship. A relationship where we want to "be like God."
As you reflect on how you are living your life, ask yourself if you are exhibiting control over your passions. And then ask yourself what your relationship with God looks like.
Many "Christians" today want God's benefits without the sacrifice. They want to be God's friend so they can go to heaven without bringing heaven to earth in their lives.
Holiness is not about checking some boxes to get into heaven. Holiness is about being like God in a dark world so that His light shines through you.
There are a lot of people who want to be known by God, but there are a lot less who really want to be like God. Which one are you?

shine!
Jason