IMITATE!

2 Thessalonians 3:7 (AMP)"For you yourselves know how it is necessary to imitate our example, for we were not disorderly or shirking of duty when we were with you [we were not idle]."

It is fascinating to note that Apostle Paul stated that imitation was a necessity for this group of people at Thessalonica. Brother Paul was speaking from his wealth of experience. Imitation is an essential component of the concepts of success. It's just that many of us don't know how to operate this concept.

Let's start this way; if we don't get the meaning of the word right, we may lose the benefits of imitating. So, we need to define the word imitate so as to have a clearer picture of our discuss. Imitation here is not the bandwagon effect that is common with us in this clime. Imitation here is not stealing other people's proprietary work/product to claim as yours. The word imitate means "To follow as a model or a pattern..." Wiktionary.

There are two dimensions to imitation (or following); the divine dimension where we imitate/follow the Lord and the natural dimension where we are expected to have someone we are imitating or following. Ephesians 5:1 (AMP)"THEREFORE BE imitators of God [copy Him and follow His example], as well-beloved children [imitate their father]."

Most Christians know how to operate in the divine dimension when it comes to imitation but have often failed in the human dimension. Every man that was "made" was "made" by following! Jesus in the flesh gave us an example in relating with the men He chose for His earthly assignment: Matthew 4:19 (KJV)And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make you...

Imitation is meant to be the response of a mentee to his or her mentor. Remember, to imitate is to follow as a model or a pattern, so who is your role model? Whose examples/patterns are you following? Many say they have mentors but fail to follow the practical examples (success principles) of their mentors.

There's no need reinventing the wheel; someone somewhere has done successfully what you're trying to do. Take their model/pattern and add your own individuality/creativity. Personalise the model/pattern to make it suit your vision.

That's one mistake we have with following and imitating, we don't know how to pattern what we have learnt to fit what we are doing. Many have lost their individuality and vision's identity in trying to operate the concept of imitation. Imitation does not mean the loss of identity!

I need to also say that you need to becareful who you follow/imitate. Prayerfully make the choice of who to pattern your business, career or life after. Let the Holy Spirit lead you in making the right choice. Also check whether such individuals are generating the results you desire. There is a difference between the man that has an idea and the man that is practising an idea with attested results.

Let me add one more advise; no one is perfect and that also include whoever you're trying to follow. Our perfection can only be found in Christ. So, you need to be sure that you know how to separate the "meat" from the "bone" as you follow that individual. So, it's better to follow an individual who is daily modeling Christ. This is supported by Apostle Paul's conclusion on this matter: 1 Corinthians 11:1 (AMP)PATTERN YOURSELVES after me [follow my example], as I imitate and follow Christ (the Messiah).
1 Corinthians 11:1 (NKJV)Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ.

You're blessed!

Olufemi Olunuga.

The Believers' Sanctuary.

Abeokuta.