What kind of imitators are we?

Ephesians 5:1 Therefore be imitators of God as dear children. 


When you're checking out at the grocery line, do you catch yourself looking at the front cover of the latest issue of style magazine? Wondering if you are sporting the latest trends. Up to date with your hair and jewels. Maybe there's something in my closet that can imitate that great outfit on the cover. So you go home, do a quick inventory of your closet and realize you could use a few things to perk up your look for summer. So the next thing you know, you're picking up a nice cool Mocha Frappachino before heading to your favorite store to do a little shopping. Innocent enough right? Be careful!!! See where that little morsel of a magazine ad got you! 


Questions to ask ourselves in addition to what the Holy Spirit is speaking:


1. Did I ask myself if these things I so desire are wants or needs?


2. Did I talk this over with my husband, as not to put us over the family budget?


3. Is this money I should be using toward my husband's Father's Day gift? 


4. Etc. etc.


Loving reminders of God's Word of protection: 


Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world-the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life- is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever.- 1 John 2:15-17 


And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God. - Romans 12:2 


The cares of this world, the deceitfulness of riches, and the desires for other things entering in choke the word, and it becomes unfruitful. - Mark 4:19 


Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. -Ephesians 5:6 


Ladies, let's move into the fragrance department: 


And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling aroma. 
-Ephesians 5:2


My season right now being an empty nester, allows me more free time on my hands. I must pick and choose how I spend His time. Choices that bring forth fruit, not compliments. 


Redeeming the time, because the days are evil. - Ephesians 5:16


So next time we're in the grocery line, let's be thinking of how we can encourage the cashier and give her a lift. Imitating Christ, instead of being distracted with nonsense.