A Balancing Act by Abby Kelly

“Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” Ephesians 5:1-2

As Christians, we’re often told that we should strive to be like Christ. But what exactly does that mean? In Ephesians 5:1, we’re even told to imitate God. That’s a tall order! Since none of us is perfect, how can we ever successfully imitate God?

Paul gives us a few specifics later in the chapter. We are to be filled with love, be sacrificial, moral, pure, have no idols, live wisely, worship God and be filled with the Holy Spirit, to name a few. Then in verse 15, Paul says, "See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise.”

Circumspectly is a big word, with a big meaning that can be explained in simple terms. It means to walk accurately, diligently and exactly.

When I was a little girl, my dad built a low balance beam for my sisters and me. Once or twice, he showed us how to align our feet, hold our arms out to the side and carefully walk across. Then, we practiced over and over, slowly, steadily. We were never able to run across.

We learn to follow God in the same way. Jesus set the example when He came to earth. Now, by spending steady, faithful, diligent time studying Him in the Bible, we are able to imitate Christ.

Abby Kelly is a freelance Christian writer. Read her recently released book, more of her work and contact her HERE.