9th January 2026

Imitators

“ Be imitators of God ”

Ephesians 5:1

Today's Bible Reading: Ephesians 5:1- 7.

Ephesians 5, opens with a daring call: “Therefore be imitators of God as dear children” (v 1). To imitate God is not to become divine, but to reflect His character — just as a child naturally mirrors a loving parent. Paul roots this imitation in love: “walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us” (v 2). God’s love is not sentimental; it is sacrificial, holy, and purposeful. We imitate Him when our lives are shaped by that same self-giving love.

Because God is holy, Paul warns that imitation also means separation from what contradicts His nature. Sexual immorality, impurity, greed, and corrupt speech are not merely bad habits; they are false imitations of love. They promise satisfaction but leave us empty and enslaved (v 3–5). God’s love gives; but sin takes.

Instead, we are called to thanksgiving — a heart that recognises grace and responds with worship (v 4). Gratitude reshapes our desires, turning us from self-indulgence to God-centred living. When we know what Christ has done for us, we no longer need to chase counterfeit pleasures.

Paul’s warning is sobering: those who persist in rejecting God’s ways cannot inherit His kingdom (v 5–7). This is not about perfection, but direction. Imitators of God are those who, by grace, are learning to love what He loves and turn from what He hates.

To imitate God is to walk in Christlike love — holy, grateful, and self-giving — until His character is seen in us.

Prayer: My loving God, and Father, help me to be more like You. In Christ's name, I ask. Amen.