Hebrews 13:5-14 | What's the lesson for me today?

7Remember your leaders who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith.
-Hebrews 13:7

Lately, I have been thinking back to the various leaders who have poured into me. When I consider the investment of these leaders, I cannot help but be thankful. From an early age, I had people pouring into me this form of doctrine that would spell the rest of my life. The amazing part of having had the investment from them that I did is that I was able to see deeply into their lives. I was around them in hard times. I was around them in great times. I was around them even when monotony was the pattern. I saw them at their highs, and witnessed their lows. The thing that remained consistent was their faith. I saw them grow. I saw them overcome. I saw the Lord shine through their character, even after horrid seasons.
 
What amazes me as I look back on those events, I see similarities in my own life. I see where I have had to overcome challenges. I see where the lows hit hard and my weakness seemed to prevail. However, the attitude of getting back up was passed off to me. I have had some tough falls. They would confess to the same. But we have stood up every time. As I look at where they are now and the outcome of their way of life, I can see that I am right to imitate their faith. Most of them are thriving in ministry. They may not have the biggest congregations or be on their way to amassing the biggest of congregations, but they are faithful and those who follow them are likewise faithful.

I can see the impact they have and the impact that is carried by those closest to them. I cherish what I have in those who have helped guide my way toward the Lord. It is as one wise teacher shared, "You can teach what you teach, but you will replicate what you are." This has served as a powerful challenge in my own life. It has often forced me to ask the question, "What am I reproducing?" I extend that challenge to all of you. You are influential. Whether or not you believe that fact, it is still a fact. You are influencing those around you. You are influencing your family. You are influencing your church. What are you reproducing? Is your life something that others should replicate? If not, it may be worth examining your faith and manner of life. Consider as well those that you look up to. Is their faith and manner of life something you should replicate in your life? Examine the inputs that fills your life. If they are not honoring the Lord, the odds are that you will be hindered in honoring the Lord as well. Apply the filter of the word of God and see what He produces in You.

What lesson are you taking from today?