Philippians 3:17, “Brothers, join in imitating me, and keep your eyes on those who walk according to the examples you have in us.”
What does radical dependence upon Christ look like? Paul knew he was not perfect, yet he still used himself as an example of someone to follow who has learned to deal with imperfection and pursued the goal of Christlikeness. He said in 1 Corinthians 11:1, “Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ.” He also pointed out to the Philippians to note “those who walk according to the examples you have in us.” Who in your life is someone you want to follow that is radically strong in their faith, gives grace when needed, and maintains the right balance between being humble and confident in their God-given gifts and abilities despite their imperfections? Who is that person for you?
If I wholeheartedly had the right balance in striving to grow in my faith in God, applying it to my life, and keeping my eyes focused on Christ, would I then become so easily irritated by the triggers that set me off, such as recognizing incompetence and inefficiency in others? Would arrogance shown or spoken by others get under my skin? What about people appearing to dismiss my ideas that I have analyzed, worked on perfecting, and see any risks involved worth taking are justified and needed? Sadly, some days these things get the better of me and I complain and have to “share.” I am then not setting the right example of someone to follow. Do you do that too?
People not willing to collaborate with a dream or goal they had and feeling overlooked, ignored, and viewed as insignificant is what Miriam and Aaron felt when they spoke against Moses in Numbers 12. It was an example of trigger points succumbed to in these leaders in the Old Testament. They thought their leadership also had value, wanted recognition, and were jealous of Moses’ position and influence when they said, “Has the LORD indeed spoken only through Moses? Has he not spoken through us also?” Miriam spoke up and was the ringleader of the two. Both Aaron and Miriam allowed the sin of envy and pride towards Moses, due to feeling ignored and insignificant, and so attacked Moses by criticizing his wife. Miriam had a powerful personality, a leader, and was very charismatic. She was a prophetess (Exodus 15). Both Miriam and Aaron were significant leaders of Israel. Miriam was having an “it’s not fair!” complaint, and God dealt harshly with Miriam for her envy of Moses grieved God. What an example for us to be on guard against in our own life as we influence those around us!
Each of us has to pivot when our strengths become our weaknesses and sin results. We must ask God to help us identify the real issue and our personal motive during arguing over disagreements. We (I) need to ask if there is any envy involved, so we (I) don’t make the foolish mistake of attacking others with a verbal bazooka as Miriam did. God judged and punished her actions by giving her Leprosy for seven days, for her public opposition to Moses.
Paul maintained humbleness, and he never intended for the people to focus on him per se; instead, he wanted them to join him in focusing on having radical dependence on Christ. He had other Christian examples he saw as having mature faith such as Timothy and Epaphroditus, who were genuinely concerned for the Philippians and lived a service-centered life for Christ. I can think of several Christian examples God has blessed me with, both men and women, throughout my life that I admire and are godly examples for me to follow. Who can you name that have done the same for you?
Radical dependence on Christ, making decisions on the basis of eternal values, and learning from godly examples God places in our life will help us in being salt and light in our servant, shepherding, leadership opportunities. Ask yourself, how can I align my character to Christ’s and follow His example today better than I did yesterday? What kind of an example am I, as an imperfect person striving to become all that God wants me to be? I have to keep reminding myself to keep my eyes on the goal, to become like Christ, and that this world is not my permanent address. “We’re back to the critical question. Do you want to have a great ministry, or do you just want to be great? How you answer will determine how you lead.” Chuck Swindoll. A Man of Grace and Grit. Paul. Profiles in Character.
Listen to Shoulders (Lyrics) by King and Country.