Philippians 4:9 KJV
[9] Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.
In a world that is constantly tilting toward the edge, it is hard to find the right examples of holiness and righteousness that one can emulate. Actually, the world has its means and methods, and it is under the control and influence of the prince of this world, who is the devil himself. There is a system and a way of doing things that the world is comfortable with, and it will do all it can to promote and entrench it. There is also the way the Word of God has laid down for those who are also under its control and influence. Both of these control centres are absolute monarchs, and you cannot sit on the fence between both of them as there is no fence or middle ground. You are either fully under the direction of the Word of God, or under the influence of the systems and principles of the world. It has to also be noted that both of them have earthly and eternal consequences.
Paul had experienced both control points, so he would know the power available in God. Here was a man who had encouraged a mob to stone someone to death, and had been involved in the death of a few others. He was on his way to commit more atrocities when he was arrested by God, and his life was changed. Even those who had known about him were unsure, but over time, they came to recognise and admit that he was a changed man. A former murderer of the followera of Christ was now ready to become a matyr for Christ if so required. That is the power and effect of the change that the presence of Christ can bring into a man's life. The past becomes part of the strength for the present, as well as the template for the impact of the future. Men who had always known me can testify to the change in me, and would want to know who or what has led to the change.
It is not a wonder, then, that Paul could speak so clearly and eloquently about his life being an example that others could emulate. He was not just going to say it; he would let his life also be an example that others could see the change in. Too many times, hypocrisy and eye-service have been the limits to a life of impact. Men hear the words but they do not match the life they see. Paul was able to say with confidence that his lifestyle, as well as his words, and even his teachings all matched and could serve as sources of information and encouragement to other people. It was not a pick from alternative options, but a harmony of different parts. He was not saying: "Do as I say, not do as I do", but all about his life was laid bare for everyone to see. That is quite deep. Can anyone see me at anytime and still recognise the imprint of God upon my life? Is it a seasonal wonder, where I get to switch on and off as the occasion demands? Remember: God is counting on us to impact the world for Him. May we not disappoint Him. God's time of favour is here.
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