So I was born in 1989…
Which means I grew up in the 90’s. The 90’s were…interesting…for a variety of reasons…most of those utterly irrelevant to today’s topic.
One of the concepts embraced by the church (but especially youth) writ large during that period was this “WWJD” mindset…
You remember the wristbands, don’t you?
In case you don’t, looks like there’s a Wikipedia entry where you can learn all your “What What Jesus Do” history: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/What_would_Jesus_do%3F
Whether or not you agree with wearing a wristband that bears that mark or whatever…that’s not the point.
The older I get, I am realizing something: To my shame (and in my sin), I often never actually consider… “How would Christ handle this situation?”
Here’s some context/backstory:
During small groups at church the other night, we were talking about “being God’s man in your family.”
The real question being…how do we practically lead our families as Christian husbands and dads?
One of the points I brought up has to do with the marriage metaphor in Scripture, which I wrote about here: http://steveschramm.com/marriage-in-the-bible-and-sinning-against-god/
Think about, say, your disposition (men) toward your wife. How do we lead our wives practically and spiritually?
Believe it or not…this is a GREAT place to ask: WWJD?
Why?
Well, think about it…
The marriage metaphor is extensive throughout Scripture. Broadly speaking, it compares the relationship between Christ and his church as a wedding. We are the “bride of Christ.”
In fact, when the Apostle Paul teaches about the structure of the family (Ephesians 5), he uses this metaphor as the basis for his argument about the way a husband should treat his wife.
So it’s natural to extend the metaphor. What sort of qualities does a healthy relationship like that have?
It has what Jesus gives us!:
- Grace
- Forgiveness
- Peace
- Longsuffering
- Unconditional love
- Sacrifice
- Etc.
So—here is the super simple point: In everything you do, follow Jesus.
Follow his leading.
Follow his instruction.
Follow his example.
Just FOLLOW.
Be Jesus to the people around you.
Enduring Together,
Steve
P.S. When it comes to sharing Jesus with others… I know that can be a bit intimidating. Grab a free copy of my book God, the Great Commission, and You here: www.SteveSchramm.com/GGY …it will help! 🙂
