GOOD ROLE MODELLING

A Response to "Good Role Modelling"

The Call to Be a Role Model

A role model is a person whose behavior, example, or success can be emulated by others, especially by younger people. In the context of faith, the elderly and mature believers ought to be good role models, whose years of walking with the Lord can be an exemplary pattern for others to follow. The apostle Paul understood this responsibility and boldly declared, "Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ." Paul did not point to himself arrogantly; he pointed to himself as a living demonstration of what it looks like to follow Jesus. People cannot see Christ physically, but they can see Christ in you. That is the whole reason why Paul said it so. Your life is a visible representation of the invisible God.

Letting Your Light Shine

Allowing others to see your light can lead others to finding Christ. God is going to use you to save some people in your life. The best testimony is not what you say to others; it is how you live your lives. Words can be forgotten, but a life of integrity leaves a lasting impression. People may not remember your sermons, but they will remember your kindness, your patience, and your love. They will see the difference Christ makes in you, and they will be drawn to Him. Even if you seem like you do not care, unbelievers are always watching you. They are observing how you handle trials, how you treat others, and how you live out your faith in everyday situations. Your life is a sermon that never stops preaching.

Role Models for the Next Generation

Not only should you be a role model to outsiders and other believers, but you should always be a good example for your children. The next generation is watching. They are learning from your actions, your words, and your attitudes. They will imitate what they see. If you are faithful, they will learn faithfulness. If you are loving, they will learn love. If you are honest, they will learn honesty. Conversely, if you are inconsistent, they will learn inconsistency. The responsibility of being a role model is not a burden; it is a privilege. It is an opportunity to shape the next generation for the glory of God.

Women of the Bible as Role Models

The Bible gives us examples of women who make good role models. Mary demonstrates bravery and a servant heart. When the angel told her she would bear the Son of God, she did not shrink back; she said, "Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word." Rebekah demonstrates hospitality and a desire to fulfill God's will. She welcomed a stranger and served him, and through her obedience, God's plan unfolded. Ruth demonstrates loyalty. She left her homeland and her gods to follow Naomi and the God of Israel, declaring, "Your people shall be my people, and your God my God." Hannah demonstrates great faith, prayer, and praise. She poured out her soul to the Lord, and He answered her prayer. Abigail demonstrates wisdom and compassion. She intervened to prevent disaster, and her wisdom saved her household. These women are not just historical figures; they are models of faith for us to emulate.

Good Role Modelling in Scripture

You may find good role modelling approach in these two passages of Scripture. Titus 2:7-8 says, "In all things show yourself to be an example of good deeds, with purity in doctrine, dignified, sound in speech which is beyond reproach, so that the opponent will be put to shame, having nothing bad to say about us." A good role model demonstrates good deeds, not just good words. They live with purity, dignity, and sound speech. They live in such a way that even their opponents have nothing bad to say about them. Matthew 5:13-16 declares, "You are salt for the earth. But if salt loses its taste, how will it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled on by people. You are light for the world. A city cannot be hidden when it is located on a hill. No one lights a lamp and puts it under a basket. Instead, everyone who lights a lamp puts it on a lamp stand. Then its light shines on everyone in the house. In the same way let your light shine in front of people. Then they will see the good that you do and praise your Father in heaven." Salt preserves and enhances; light illuminates and guides. We are called to be salt and light in a world that is dark and decaying.

Final Reflection

Good role modelling is not optional; it is a calling. You may not feel qualified, but God does not call the qualified; He qualifies the called. You may not feel visible, but someone is watching. You may not feel influential, but your life has an impact. Be a role model. Let your light shine. Live in such a way that others can follow your example as you follow Christ. Your life is a testimony. Your actions are a sermon. Your example is a legacy.

Prayer for Role Modelling

Lord, help me to be a good role model for others. Let my life be a reflection of Christ. Help me to live with integrity, purity, and love. Let my actions speak louder than my words. Use me to lead others to You. Help me to be salt and light in a world that needs both. I want to be a good example to my children, my family, and my community. Let my life be a testimony of Your grace and a legacy of Your faithfulness. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.