RELATED SCRIPTURES

Being an imitator of God, in this case means to follow after him in actions and behavior. To copy and follow the example of Christ, who was the ultimate sacrifice on our behalf. He loved perfectly, all the time.

Since we have Christ living in us, we can choose to love in a sacrificial way, instead of primarily living only for ourselves. This takes building maturity into our lives, which takes time. It is by the grace of God that we can do this, but we absolutely need him and the Word of God, if we hope to gain the maturity that the Apostle Paul is talking about in the Ephesians passage shown below.

Can I do this perfectly? No I can't, but HE can! It's only when we are dependent on his guidance through the Holy Spirit's indwelling, that you or I can offer ourselves to others, in a way that loves them like Christ loves us.

How I praise you LORD, for the opportunity to love like you love, and the forgiveness that you give when I fail. Knowing that I have the Holy Spirit in me, who guides me and nudges me to repent, when I decide to do things my own way. YOUR ways are always right, and your ways always love.

God's love, produces a ripple effect and touches the lives of those who come into contact with us. May God's love show through. -- Cheryl
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Ephesians 5:1-2 -- Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children;
² and walk in love, just as Christ also loved you and gave Himself up for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God as a fragrant aroma.
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1 Corinthians 13:8a -- Love never fails...