Copy Cat

Have you ever noticed how children love to copy everything they see and everything they hear? We have probably all been exposed, you know, to a person that copies, imitates, mimics, or follows our lead.

·         A co-worker or friend who compliments something we are wearing, and shows up the next day wearing it

·         Someone who picks up a unique (only to us) expression or saying and begins using it

·         Someone who adopts our ideas and then passes them off as being their own idea first

We all think (or we try to be!) original and one of a kind, but there are always going to be people who share our interests and/or admire something we have or do. (If we are honest, we do the same thing!) Besides, they say that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery…right?

“If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from His love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete, by being like- minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose.”  (Philippians 2:1)

Every day we are setting an example by the clothes we wear, the things we say, and the choices we make, and there are people who are going to be watching and imitating or following our lead. Personally, I find it flattering when my actions, ideas, or behavior influences others. Paul told Timothy in 1 Timothy 4:12 to “set an example”, and we have to realize that our behavior does inspire others! We want to set a good example for others to replicate our action and activities, and we have to constantly guard our performance and manner because others are not only watching, but there is a possibility that what they see us doing will influence them to mimic or copy us.

“Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers.” (I Timothy 4:16)

We may not realize just how many people are watching us, but they are watching! And we must constantly be aware of our image, and the things we say and do so that it makes a praiseworthy example for others to go by. We don’t have to be perfect, but we should provide a model of living that inspires others and lifts them up. As we think about the ways we motivate others, we are aware that we are a leader wherever we go…whether as a parent, spouse, boss, or friend. This is quite a responsibility that requires us to set our sights on Jesus and pattern our life after Him! The path we follow influences others to follow along the same path; our attitudes and behavior will be a witness for the Lord and others will want to follow that type of example.

“Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.” (1 Thessalonians 5:11)

Our lives are like a lamp, and if it doesn’t help others to see it is useless! Our job is to shine and let the light of Christ reflected in our lives help those who need an influence or mentor in their life. To be a positive influence on others we have to encourage them and shine with our actions and words, and as we let this amazing light shine, we give other people permission to do the same. When we commit to following and imitating Christ, we make a commitment to influence others and help them live successfully. There is always a chance that whatever we are seen doing will influence others to copy our behavior, and we should consider that as the highest form of flattery! 

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