Thoughts
When I was a young man, I was invited to join my agency's competition rifle team. I gladly jumped at the opportunity, convinced that I was solicited because of my obvious skill as a marksman. Those who know me also know that this was a silly assumption on my part! As the team leader spoke to me about specific shooting techniques, I quickly realized I was clueless about them and, I might add, somewhat resentful at my ignorance. Nevertheless, at the range with rifle in hand, my new mentor soon taught me marksmanship skills passed on to him by his mentor in competition shooting. I imitate those proven shooting techniques to this day on the range and in the field. (RC)

Action Point
Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith (Hebrews 13:7).

This is a very practical biblical principal, but completely contrary to the world's point of view. Realistically, we learn most of what we know in this manner--as others demonstrate, we imitate. Following Jesus can be lived in this same way: We are to imitate the things in another's life that are Christ-like, including effective approaches for serving Him and reaching the ones who don't have a relationship with Him. A teachable heart is shown by imitation. I am convinced that when we fail to take advantage of opportunities to learn in this way, it is our pride that gets in the way.

All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, "God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble" (1 Peter 5:5b).