Walking in His Steps
For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps. – 1 Peter 2:21
The book “In His Steps,” by Charles Sheldon, traces the experiences of a handful of people who made a promise not to
do anything without first asking themselves the question, “What would Jesus do?” These people were already Christians, but wanted to be more for God.
I wondered what would happen to my life if I began to walk in His steps without reservation. Would my life be any different? I secretly hoped that
it would not; after all, I am a young, active Christian. However, I wondered if I could put myself alongside the people mentioned in the book. Could
I sincerely say to someone, “Follow me as I follow the Lord,” as Paul the Apostle did?
I began to mentally go through my average day. I considered how Jesus would have me treat members of my family. What would He watch, read, and listen to?
As I pondered these aspects of my life, it came to me that in order to really do what I feel the Lord wants me to do, I have to pray.
What would the impact be on my life if I lived by the question, “What would Jesus do?” at church? Surely, nothing would change there! My best friends are
at church. I get my strength from my walk with the Lord and worshiping with His people. However, as I took a closer look, I realized that the greatest
comfort zone in my life would require the largest amount of change if I were to ask myself, “What would Jesus do?” Knowing Jesus’ great love for you
and me, I could only imagine Him revering the chance to pray before meeting. How would Jesus go about preparing His Sunday school lesson, or selecting
a piece of music for a church service?
Walking in His steps will make me honestly evaluate whether I am serious in my consecrations and my desire to please Christ. So it is really not a choice.
I know the end result will help me to be more Christ-like, and that is my heart’s desire.
How much more could the Lord accomplish through us if we made a promise to do this? I believe that the possibilities, as well as the benefits, are limitless.
By His grace, you and I can purpose in our hearts to walk closer to Him by asking, “What would Jesus do?” . . . and then doing it.