An example for others

2 Thess. 3:7-9

Paul said to the Thessalonians, “For you yourselves know how you ought to follow our example. We were not idle when we were with you, nor did we eat anyone’s food without paying for it. On the contrary, we worked night and day, laboring and toiling so that we would not be a burden to any of you. We did this, not because we do not have the right to such help, but in order to offer ourselves as a model for you to imitate” (2 Thess. 3:7-9).

Not only ministers, but also all leaders, parents and believers need to live exemplary lives. No one is perfect, but we strive towards perfection as we grow, so that others may emulate our behaviours and characters. Paul had the rights to be helped, but he lived his life in such a way that he would become a model for others to follow.  He said, “My conscience is clear” (1 Cor. 4:4), and that “Brethren, I have lived my life with a perfectly good conscience before God up to this day” (Rom. 9:1).

Let us also emulate Paul so that others may emulate us too.