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In part one of this post we looked at our valuable purpose as image bearers of God to be an imprint of Christ to the world around us. We also examined the Biblical truth that validates this discussion. {Click here to read Part One.}
Today we will consider what is required of us to be an imprint, and weâll discuss our need to ârep the houseâ as well by taking action.
What does that mean? Read on.
Ever since our kids were little, Brad and I have taught them that the Lord is the head of our home, and every Smith needs to rep the house well. The rules are simple:
Love God.
Love others.
Use your manners.
Use kind words.
Wear clean underwear.
Say please.
Say thank you.
Say youâre sorry.
Be a helper.
Get the door for people.
Work hard.
Go out of your way to make other people feel special.
And our kids know that Brad and I are always around to give them a âGood job, kid!â We expect them to rep the house. We reward them when they do and hold them accountable when they donât.
The Bible tells us that all of humanity is made in the image of God. If we profess Christ, however, we are not only fashioned in His image, we are commissioned to be His representatives to the world. It says that the way we live makes a difference and should make an impact on His behalf.
To leave an imprint of Christ, we canât just believe in Jesus, we also need to behave like Jesus. Live like Jesus. Love like Jesus. Serve like Jesus.
James challenged us this wayâĤ
What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can that faith save him? If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, and one of you says to them, âGo in peace, be warmed and filled,â without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that? So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.
But someone will say, âYou have faith and I have works.â Show me your faith apart from your works, and I will show you my faith by my works. You believe that God is one; you do well. Even the demons believeâand shudder! Do you want to be shown, you foolish person, that faith apart from works is useless? âĤ For as the body apart from the spirit is dead, so also faith apart from works is dead. (James 2:14-20, 26 ESV)
I simply cannot be an imprint of Christ to the world if I donât do things on His behalf to bless and serve others.
You canât either.
I leave His imprint when I get beyond myself by caring for the needs of others.
I leave His imprint when I forgive quickly instead of holding that grudge.
I leave His imprint when I serve my family without grumbling and without expecting anything in return.
As children of the holy, loving King of Kings, you and I need to recognize our value in the big picture of Godâs kingdomââthe eyes of the LORD search the whole earth in order to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to himâ (2 Chron. 16:9 NLT).
And we need to rep the house … trusting that He will strengthen us to be the imprints that authenticate and validate the reality of His grace.
Holy God,
Help me to not just believe in You – but to behave like You. Teach me to better reflect You, Lord. Show me practical ways to ârep the houseâ so that those around me might wonder about the hope I have in You.
In Jesus’ name, amen.
FOR YOUR REFLECTION and RESPONSE
What is one practical way you can rep the house today? {Click here to tell me your answer!} Will you do it? Pray that God will open your eyes to the opportunities He presents.
CLICK to TWEET: Â To leave an imprint of Christ, we canât just believe in Jesus, we also need to behave like Jesus. @GwenSmithMusic
Have an incredible day friend.
REP the HOUSE!
GWEN
*Portions of todayâs devotion are an excerpt of I Want It ALL.
Youâre Invited: I WANT IT ALL Online Bible Study!
This study will help you:
* Step into the renewal and rest that is best for your weary, stressed-out heart so that you won’t be shaken by the swirling pace of this fast-moving world.
* Quiet feelings of loneliness, fear, and doubt by accepting the Biblical truth that even when you feel unseen, anxious, and afraid, God is present, peace-giving, and compassionate.
* Learn practical prayer points that will clear away heart clutter, calm concerns, and bolster believing.
JOIN US March 5 – April 9 as we study “I WANT IT ALLâ by Girlfriends in God cofounder Gwen Smith. Sign up today for FREE: https://gwensmith.net/iwia2018
Comments 64
Our ârep the Houseâ is âleaving Kingdom Footprintsâ. Itâs on our business cards and part of our signature on emails. I teach a large womenâs Bible study and always have ways to serve available for the women to participate in. I mentor several young women, some lead non-profits, and help them see potential in their groups to leave kingdom footprints and sometime just âtalk them off the cliff.â At 72 God is using my past jobs and experiences to help the next generation.
I will try to be more understanding of the needs & feelings of others. I will trust that God is going to bring my daughters thru this fight with cancer & heal them. I will try to show my faith, not just say that I’m faithful.
I can Rep the house by treating everyone I come in contact with with love and respect. Lending a helping hand whenever possible and telling others about the love of God and his Son Jesus Christ.
I need to watch my language. Instead of representing God, I tend to act and speak like those around me (my family). I need to clean up my act!
Today I will “rep the house” at work by keeping my negative thoughts to myself, and being an encouragement to others. Asking God to help me see those who irritate me, as He sees them.
Snow day here today so I pray God will help me to be disciplined to accomplish some needed tasks and to encourage my husband when he returns home
I will do this today by thanking God for being with me daily as I care for the people around me. Im a full time care taker of my adult disabled daughter, and my father in law on hospice. Lord, please help me to show them the grace, and love you have for us all. Help me when it is stressful to lean in and not react to the emotion. Thank you Lord!
Loving and showing kindness to my husband even when I think he is taking advantage of it
I, too, struggle w/this problem b/c I never know how she will act in my presence. I just pray for her because I know only God can change her heart.
Today I will look for ways to be an instrument of Godâs will and also share my personal story of Godâs grace through Jesus Christ.
Gwen, one way I can “rep the house” is to think prior to opening my mouth. Sarcasm is one of my many weaknesses – I know it sometimes causes pain, but I still use it. Definitely a shortcoming of mine that I work at overcoming every day! Thanks for all of your encouraging words and thought-provoking topics.
Oh my, that hit home, me too, so….I will try to be more aware of my words, and to know the difference between words that hurt verses words that heal!
Thank you for challenging me to “Rep the House”. This has been so hard for me lately at work and the enemy likes to whisper in my ear that I am being walked all over and deserve to be angry and react with anger. My actions need to reflect Jesus and this involves turning the other check. My prayer is that God would give me peace at work and take away the frustration I have been feeling so I can shine His light at work.
I will rep the house by following and showing more patience..Have been going through a very difficult time with my family. I know by following and listening to Gods word, He will pull us through. Thank you.,Gods blessings to everyone.
I love to give gifts and bless others. I think I have been called to do more of it this year. I am excited to send cards and give gifts.
For months, my daughter in law has shunned me and it has effected my time with the grandsons. She seldom answers her phone if she knows itâs me nor her texts. She is a sour, miserable person to be around yet any time Iâm in her presence Iâm happy and kind. We pray hard for the situation and often wonder if her heart even knows Jesus although she can talk the talk at times. It gets very frustrating and confusing for me. Iâve learned when she comes into my thoughts in a negative way, I just say the name of Jesus. It helps. As how to do anymore than weâve already done to show we love her, Iâm not sure. Iâm tired and frustrated.
I show Jesus love everyday when I show and react with love and kindness. My coworkers are always asking while you always smiling. It’s because I have the joy of the Lord down inside of me. There is no need to be unhappy. Even if I am found in an unhappy situation, there’s no need to stay there.
I will rep the house by showing kindness with my employees and peace in the midst of stressful situations.
In January I chose “compassion” as my one word for this year, and today I really need to show it. I have a troubled and disruptive student that needs to know I am a rep of the big house (the Biggest, holiest house!) I need to show compassion like Jesus and have His patience as well. My other little ones will remember this more than any other lesson I could possibly teach. Practical, but not necessarily easy – supportive prayers are appreciated!
I will represent the house by doing onto others as Jesus has done with me.
I will do for others as God does for me
I feel that I need to rep God’s house by sharing that doing stuff *for* Jesus may just be adding more layers upon women who are already overworked and tired. If we are in right relationship with Jesus then we’ll know if we’re to say “yes” to another opportunity that Jesus wants to do *through* us, or if we’re to say “no” so that someone else can have the ministry opportunity God wants them to have. I think sometimes we can confuse being like Jesus means that we’re a doormat for everyone else. Jesus knew and knows fully who He is and He is the only martyr people need. Women, generally, need to know their own value and worth, and need to demonstrate that knowledge to those who would prefer to abuse our helpfulness. I’ve often wondered if Jesus was always “kind” and “nice”. Sometimes I think we have the wrong Jesus, especially when faced with a den of thieves, money changers, dirty laundry spreaders, etc.
For 13 years I had worked with a homeless program in our area. About 2 weeks ago I was banned from all future dealings with them because when I interacted with them by showing Christ’s love I was breaking the rules . God closed the door there because there is some other work for me to do. I don’t know yet what it is, but at age 66 I will find where HE wants me to serve next. Pray that I find it soon. I also work (volunteer) at a food pantry for low income and homeless where they encourage me to interact with our guest. I’ve also been sent out to seek those in need there. I won’t stop serving the LORD and being an example to my children and grandchildren (and someday even great grandchildren and even my friends around me!).
I have the opportunity and privilege to be in a first grade classroom that has children who may not know Jesus. I can show them love by modeling the behaviors that Jesus has and by loving them through my teaching them to read, write and do math.
To be a rep of the house … I need to do my work without grumbling,,, in and out of the house.
Good morning to you all! Today i will “rep the house” by cleaning up any messes in the home even if i didnt make the mess. And it will be less work for my mama!
I will rep the house by being there for my family and there needs with a joyful and considerate heart. I will reach out to my teenage daughters friends and be that listening ear that they need and share JESUS and his love with them.
I will rep the house by being humble and forgiving. Thank you, God bless you and your family abundantly!
I will continue to share my experience, strength and hope with other people who suffer from co-occuring disorders (a mental illness and alcoholism/addiction). That’s how I will rep the house today and in days to come.
I will continue to rep my house hoping I live up to GOD’S expectation of me. I purchased your new book via e-book “I want it all” and I am at the fourth chp, it is a fantastict book. TY for writing it, I can relate to those those times you mentioned that took us away from GOD’S PERFECT LOVE. GKJ
I will tell the truth on myself, even if it means recanting something I’ve said that wasn’t true.
Thank you for this message. It is amazing to me how our wonderful, faithful God gives us everything we need to behave like Him. I didn’t realize this for MANY years, but not long ago He showed me His love for us through Holy Spirit and how we truly are in Him…that by His Spirit (not by my power or strength) can I represent Jesus. Since that time, Holy Spirit continuously leads me into loving every person I meet …I had to slow down my busy-ness and continue to ask Him for grace regarding that..but in slowing down and seeking Him daily, He has been faithful to guide me and it is soooo in my heart that He loves us, wants to help us and will lead us into all truth. Thank you for reminding me today of this AMAZING gift we have in Jesus.
Thank you for this message. It is amazing to me how our wonderful, faithful God gives us everything we need to behave like Him. I didn’t realize this for MANY years, but not long ago He showed me His love for us through Holy Spirit and how we truly are in Him…that by His Spirit (not by my power or strength) can I represent Jesus. Since that time, Holy Spirit continuously leads me into loving every person I meet …I had to slow down my busy-ness and continue to ask Him for grace regarding that..but in slowing down and seeking Him daily, He has been faithful to guide me and it is soooo in my heart that He loves us, wants to help us and will lead us into all truth. Thank you for reminding me today of this AMAZING gift we have in Jesus.
I will rep God’s house by sharing His word and love with my family and friends. By helping others without expecting anything in return.
Thank you for clarity on how to show Jesus in my life. I struggle with feeling that my faith is real. It so often seems I know what to do in my mind but to do it and make a difference is lacking. I have 3 kids. The 2 teens have a pretty solid faith. The 6 yr old comes to church cause he has to and doesn’t understand much of it yet. I will rep the house by doing a better job teaching him about Jesus and also by checking on a couple of older friends that I am concerned about. Lots of growing and coming to terms with different situations needed here too. Praise God for your messages.
I do love this! And I love your house rules! Will definitely copy! (hope you don’t mind?). I will rep house by not grumbling or complaining when I do things for my family. Forgiving and letting go of grudges with God’s help, because it is hard!
I will “rep the house” by learning to be gentle and gracious towards others.
I will rep the house by being kinder to my husband and to my family when feeling overwhelmed ?
I will “rep” my house by taking care of my family. Also to support and pray for family and friends. Especially my friend that lost her husband. I can show her compassion, because I’ve lost my husband 17 months ago. I give all the glory to God.
I am starting to believe there must be a Mom’s translation of the bible. I could not leave the house with out clean underwear either. It was even more important to have your name written on the tag as well.
All that aside. Great thoughts, You continue to share nuggets of wisdom.
Grace and peace
Roy
I will rep God’s house by sharing His Word— just like the Lord Jesus did. All throughout the pages of the Bible, He is seen sharing the Word of God with the lost and broken! His Word heals!!!
Listen to the precious Holy Spirit’s prompting and He will lead us to the Scriptures He wants us to share!
Hallelu Yah!
Hebrews 4:12 “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”
I’ll rep the house by being more patient and positive with my son who has PTSD and high anxiety.
I will be spreading the good news to people God brings into my life that do not know Him or His son Jesus…repenting thru my mouth of any wrongs and continuing to clean oout my closet with God…
As a foster parent, I can “rep the house” not only by caring for, loving and nurturing my foster children, I can also “rep the house” by being loving and compassionate towards the biological parents. Hopefully through my example they will seek the Lord and turn their lives around for themselves and their child(ren).
A car was stalled in a very heavy traffic area this morning. A man was walking down the edge of the busy street carrying a baby. I pulled in and asked if he needed a ride. He was happy I stopped and a very caring Dad to his son. I took him to the gas station as he requested. I asked him if he had money or if I needed to stay. He shook my hand and said “thank you”. He indicated that I could leave.
I can rep the house by being greatful in all circumstances. God has blessed us with 3 beautiful children. Our youngest (Zackery) is almost 10 years old. He is severely disabled, he is blind, he cannot speak more than 5 words, he is in a wheelchair and cannot hold up his neck. I thank God every day for him and the valuable life lessons that he has and is teaching us. My husband told me very early on that we have the perfect “million dollar” family: A girl (now a sassy teen!), a boy (now an athletic pre teen), and then special Zackery who will teach us so much…
Blessed be the name, He gives and takes away….
I will “rep the house” by returning good for evil in my work place.
I tell my teenage son’s who haven’t surrendered their lives to Jesus yet. That God looks at the condition of their hearts. Are they living like Jesus? Doing and saying everything in love.
I will have patience with my Husband even when he forgets so many conversations we have. So frustrating that I fill like he doesn’t listen or remember what I say. Praying for God’s grace in these situations, so my thoughts do not go negative and angry.
You’ve got to watch Mark Grungor on YouTube on the Tale of Two Brains. I just attended a live event of his and it was so funny and instructive. Men’s brains are wired completely different than ours. We have to learn how to talk to them about one issue at a time, and face-to-face, not while we’re multi-tasking.
Yes!! It is a great series. I recommend it every couple.
I am letting go of the hurt and praying for those who inflicted the hurt in my life that is my REP the house.
Lately, God has coached me that I don’t give His love to my family as much as I do for the rest of the world. Doing household chores and taking care of my family without grumbling will strengthen my family’s bonds and show them God’s love more than me talking about it. Thanks for this message today. It’s reinforced the work already happening in my heart.
One way I can “rep the house” today is to take my time in conversation with my disabled brother instead if rushing thru. To enjoy and love rathet than make it an obligation.
I will look for ways to be a true representative of God.
Thank you for your insight on this subject.
I am sending flowers to a woman friend of mine who needs a little cheer in her life right now!
In addition to this, I have a question. I have been supporting a friend for years who has a certain volatile situation in her life. She has come close to handling the situation but then loses her courage/strength and slumps back down into the situation. I love my friend, but it has been years of supporting her mentally, emotionally and even financially at times. I feel as though she will never get out of her situation. What biblical advice could you provide? I am getting drained from supporting her and frustrated that even though she knows the right thing to do, she can’t seem to step out and do it.
Author
Hi Janna!
Thanks for writing. I have a few suggestions. First, encourage her to get with a trained Christian counselor. Her problems sound vast and it would be wise for her to gain professional help. Second, pray continually! Third, consider getting her one or both of these books: The Emotionally Destructive Marriage (LINK HERE: http://amzn.to/1qo10Qr) and/or Boundaries in Marriage (LINK HERE: http://amzn.to/1W9TnZx)
Hope this helps!
Blessings,
Gwen
I have court today and I will rep the house by extending God’s grace to my husband.
I want to be more like Jesus and do the greater things he promised l’d do in his name.
I will try to be positive and make someone feel special today.
I’m going to rep the house by showing each and every person I encounter love and warmth. Look people in the eyes and let them see that you care. Praise God for this eye opening devotional!
I will leave an imprint by putting others before myself and by teaching my children to work hard and seek the Lord in all they do!
Hello Gwen, I am truly inspired by your devotional daily and it encourages me to teach my family as well as my friends and women around me even in my church.
I learn a lot from you expecially in the marriage aspect of your teachings,I
Now know better.
Thank you for your daily encouragement and May God empower you more to touch souls all over the universe.
Blessings to you and GIG
I will rep the house today by reflecting a warm and joyful reflection to all i meet today.