Copy that!
Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ. 1 Corinthians 11:1
Have you ever heard the phrase “Copy that!” in movies or on television shows? Like when someone gives a response over a CB radio or walkie talkie. (Though I’m not sure those devises are used anymore) Or maybe at the end of a phone conversation? The response is given to let the listener know that their request or statement was understood and being carried out or acted upon. For instance, if you say to a friend “I will pick you up for group at 7.” They could respond with “Copy that!” Meaning they understand and will be ready to go when you get to their house.
In today’s key verse, Paul says copy me as I copy the Lord Jesus. It reminds me of what he said to the church at Ephesus in Ephesians 5:1 except there he tells the believers to copy or imitate God as dear children. So, what if you did copy Paul as he displayed copying the Lord Jesus? What would that even look like? Would it mean you had to become a prisoner, be beaten and ship wrecked like Paul was? Would it be that you were going to be harassed and persecuted everywhere you went. Maybe you would copy Paul by becoming a tent maker? However, that is not what Paul says to copy. He says to copy him in the same way he imitates Jesus.
So, when you have thoughts of doubt and unbelief, combat that by saying: “I am more than a conqueror through Him who loves me.” (Romans 8:37) “Copy that!” When you are filled with feelings of fear and anxiety, cast them off with saying “God has not given me a spirit of fear, but I have power, love and a sound mind.” (1 Timothy 1:7) “Copy that!” When you are nervous and worried about upcoming events or appointments, turn your faith to “Letting the peace of God rule in your life and be thankful!” (Col. 3:15) “Copy that!”
Whatever is coming against you, don’t agree with the circumstances, your thoughts or your feelings. Instead, copy what the Word says to do to be an overcomer. Use your struggles and issues as triggers to remind you that you do not want to speak or imitate them at all, you want to know what God says in His Word and the way of escape from these situations and then: “Copy that!”
Today I want to encourage you to not copy the ways of the people who are without the hope of God in their life. When you see others fretting and speaking all the negative things that are going on around them, turn to the life or Paul or better yet, the life of Jesus. Look at how they handled difficulties and the words they spoke when they were up against the pressures of life and then, “Copy that!”
Today’s scripture reading: 1 Corinthians 11:1-3
1 Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ.
2 Now I praise you, brethren, that you remember me in all things and keep the traditions just as I delivered them to you.
3 But I want you to know that the head of every man is Christ, the head of woman is man, and the head of Christ is God.
The Daily Dose 