by Pastor John Kim

To the LBC Family and Friends,

Jonathan Edwards Resolution #54
Whenever I hear anything spoken in conversation of any person, if I think it would be praiseworthy in me, Resolved to endeavor to imitate it. (July 8, 1723)

We often don’t realize that there are many lessons we can learn from the lives of those around us. Not only those who are in leadership roles but even in those that you might not always consider candidates to imitate. While there is no one that has all of their life perfect, there are many that have character qualities and behavior that really magnifies Christ and it would be remiss if we dismissed it just because they were not someone who had a title or a leadership position.

When we talk about people, do you take time to recognize the kind of things in their lives that are not only worth sharing but imitating? As we talk about other people, it would be good for us not just to avoid slander and gossip and useless talk, but rather to really uplift others, even when they are not around to hear it. And when we do hear things about people that are praiseworthy, we should do as Edwards says here, to endeavor to imitate it.

I can think of many different examples and while I don’t want to embarass someone or draw undue attention, I can look at our church family and see things about people and even hear from others about traits that are well worth imitating. The kindness of certain individuals that is constant and consistent. The generosity of those who go out of their way to bring a meal when you are busy. The thoughtfulness of those who write notes of encouragement in a timely way. The patience of those who are able to deal with the imperfections of people in a persevering manner. The optimism of those who don’t get fixed on the negative things but are constantly hopeful. The willingness to share even a cookie with someone when they run out. The sacrifice of those who will put in long hours that not many would see to do those things that many might not even recognize but need to be done so that we can do ministry. And the list goes on. I can think of very specific names for these and other qualities that are a challenge to me to imitate.

I hope that you will be willing to even learn from those that are younger than you. Often times we get older and think that we are above learning from those who are younger. That is too bad because there is much we can learn, even from the children in nursery and preschool.

Take some time this week to maybe write down a short list of things that you recognize in others. Thank God for them. Then share about them with others so that others can learn from them as well.

I would appreciate your prayers as I am up in Lake Hughes (past Castaic Lake) speaking to a junior high camp. Please pray for strength and the right words to preach the truth to these young people.

Have a great week!

In His grace,
Pastor John