Join together in following my example, brothers and sisters, and just as you have us as a model, keep your eyes on those who live as we do. (Phil. 3:17)
Expanded Passage: Philippians 3:12-21
My spiritual journey is marked by the people who guided me. From youth pastors to teachers to counselors to mentors, I would not be who I am today without their influence on my life. When I think of these people and how they have served as godly examples for my life, I am filled with gratitude. And how wonderful is the thought that someone could consider my discipleship of them in a similar way.
Even Paul, as he wrote this letter, recognized and acknowledged that he had not reached his goal yet; he had more to do in his life. But he still called the church to follow his example. And that is true of us as well. There is always more to learn and always more to teach. We are called to follow the examples of others and be an example to others. While most importantly, we all must set our eyes on Jesus, the ultimate example of holiness.
That is how we move toward maturity in Christ. The minute we stop learning or teaching, our faith becomes stagnant and stale. We are citizens of heaven who live in the hope that one day we will be transformed and glorified, completely and wholly. Until that day comes, we press on, doing all we can to be mature in Christ and bringing others along in that journey.
Pray for relationships where you can be discipled and you can disciple.
Ethan Zent is an ordained pastor in The Wesleyan Church, serving as a full-time missionary alongside his wife with the organization Poetice in Zambia.
© 2026 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
