So we say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?” Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith.
Hebrews 13:6-7 NIV
Imitate
Back in 2022, Surrey BC RCMP reminded the public to be cognizant of carrying, possessing and using imitation firearms like BB guns, pellet guns and airsoft, after some recent calls for service. On June 23, RCMP officers responded to a report of a youth brandishing a handgun and threatening another youth inside a busy shopping mall. Officers responded after members of the public and security guards reported seeing the weapon. Upon closer inspection the realistic looking firearm, cylinder and cartridges turned out to be an imitation firearm.
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The history of the Church is filled with the giants of the faith, who faithfully walked with Jesus despite incredible challenges. Their life of faith and trust is an example to us, and the Bible calls us to imitate their faith. The author of the book of Hebrews does so in Hebrews 13:6-7: “So we say with confidence, ‘The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?’ Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith.” The world puts pressure on us to follow its ways. We are called to emulate the rich and famous, the beautiful and the successful. That may be the thing to do if you want to get ahead here and now, but if you are a follower of Christ, your eyes must be on eternity. So, we are called to emulate the saints who have gone before us to live a life that honours the Lord and impacts the world for Jesus. We are called to learn from them and imitate their faith.
These have been words from the heart.
Bob Beasley