Who Are You Reflecting?

By: Keefe Wilson

Friday, April 25, 2025

Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children. Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ... Ephesians 5:1-2 (NLT)

As my wife and I watched our children grow, we noticed traits, expressions, and behaviors that reminded us of ourselves. It was truly amazing to witness. When they did something good, we beamed with pride. But when they got into trouble, I'd jokingly ask, "Where did they learn that?" Without missing a beat, my wife would say, "They're acting like their dad."

Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love. 1 John 4:8

When people look at us, do they see God's love in us? Do they see us being kind to those who hurt us? Are we extending grace, forgiving quickly, and loving the ones the world calls unlovable? Are we living in a way that honors God and avoiding sin? Are we growing spiritually and striving for the righteousness of God? As Christ followers, we are called to reflect God's nature to others. So, we must all evaluate ourselves, and ask: Am I living in a way that mirrors Christ, or am I reflecting someone else?

Our opening verses from Ephesians 5 remind us to only imitate God. If we claim we are God's children, all of our actions should reflect our Heavenly Father's character. When speaking about His Heavenly Father, Jesus said, "I always do what pleases Him" (John 8:29). Can we make that same statement about ourselves? Or are we mainly doing whatever pleases us? Are we following "self" (focused on ourselves) or following Jesus? More than our words, our behavior reflects who we are truly following.

like the Holy One who called you, be holy yourselves also in all your behavior; 1 Peter 1:15 (NASB)

If we aren't living according to God's instructions, we aren't reflecting God's character, we're reflecting Satan's. If our behavior includes deception, dishonesty, and division, we didn't get them from God. Gossip and bitterness don't come from God; neither do pride and unforgiveness. Think about the reasons Satan fell; rebellion and a refusal to be corrected were key parts of his downfall. When we insist on doing everything our way instead of God's, we may not realize it, but we are mirroring Satan's character! Every believer must examine their heart and ask themselves another important question: Whose character am I really reflecting?

Our world is watching us, so let's make sure our lives reflect God's love, mercy, and truth. Follow Jesus' instructions and mirror your Heavenly Father!