People are watching us more than we realize.
Our children watch us. Our grandchildren watch us. Our friends, coworkers, neighbors, and even strangers notice how we conduct ourselves. They may forget much of what we say, but they will remember what they see us do.
Being a good example doesn’t mean being perfect. None of us are. It means trying to live in such a way that our actions support the values we claim to believe.
If we tell others to be kind, let them see kindness in us.
If we encourage honesty, let us be honest.
If we talk about forgiveness, let us be willing to forgive.
If we tell people to trust God, let them see us trusting Him when life gets difficult.
One of the greatest influences we can have on another person is simply living the right way in front of them.
The Apostle Paul wrote:
“Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ.” — 1 Corinthians 11:1
That’s a powerful statement. Paul was saying, in effect, “Watch how I live as I try to follow Christ.”
Could we say the same?
Someone may be learning how to handle disappointment by watching you. Someone may be learning how to treat their spouse by watching you. Someone may be learning how to respond to criticism, adversity, success, or failure by observing your example.
Your life may be teaching a lesson you never knew you were teaching.
So today, don’t just tell people what is right—show them.
Live with integrity when nobody is looking.
Treat people with respect when they cannot do anything for you.
Keep your word.
Admit when you’re wrong.
Encourage somebody who is struggling.
And when life gets hard, demonstrate the faith and character you hope others will develop.
You may never know how many lives your example has touched.
Thought for Today
Live today in such a way that if someone follows your example, it will lead them in the right direction.
Be the example you would want someone you love to follow.
