Devotional for Be a Positive Example
As Christians, we are called to be a positive example to the people around us.
How are we to encourage others to follow Christ if we act no differently than nonbelievers? We are to present to everyone around us with the fruit of the Spirit characteristics, and though we are to live in this world, we are not to be of it. That means our decisions and actions should reflect godly behavior.
We are to be a positive example to strangers, co-workers, friends, and family.
Most importantly, we should be a positive example for our children! They view us at all times of the day and in all seasons of our lives. Our children watch us when we are conversing with our spouse, friends, and when we are on social media. They remember the choices we make when we decide to skip church to have a lazy Sunday, or when they rarely see us open our Bible or pray.
And we all blow it as examples—sometimes spectacularly. We snap, scroll, gossip, or skip church when we’re tired. That doesn’t disqualify us; it makes us human parents and spouses who need Jesus every single day. The good news? Our kids don’t need perfect examples—they need parents who keep running back to Jesus, saying ‘I messed up, but watch me get back up with His help.’ That’s the most powerful example we can ever give.
In marriage, being a positive example looks like:
- Letting your kids (and the world) see you apologize quickly when you’re wrong
- Speaking about your spouse with respect—even when they’re not in the room
- Praying together out loud where your children can overhear
- Choosing forgiveness and kindness on the days you feel anything but holy
- Showing the world that a Jesus-centered marriage is different, beautiful, and worth wanting
Take the time to read the Bible scriptures below and truly focus on what they are saying to you. Some passages may touch you differently than others. Writing down the verses in your own hand is helpful for some individuals. Possibly looking up the verses in your Bible may be beneficial. I use a NIV bible translation. Or reading them over and over to commit to memory. Whatever method works best for you to experience God’s words and feel closer to Him.
Titus 2:7-8
In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us.
Deuteronomy 6:6-7
These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.
Matthew 5:19
Anyone who breaks one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do the same will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever practices and teaches these commands will be called great in the kingdom of heaven.
1 Timothy 4:12
Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity.
Luke 17:1-3
Jesus said to his disciples: "Things that cause people to sin are bound to come, but woe to that person through whom they come. It would be better for him to be thrown into the sea with a millstone tied around his neck than for him to cause one of these little ones to sin. So watch yourselves.
Philippians 3:17
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.
Romans 14:13
Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in your brother's way.
Here's a quick prayer if you're struggling to find the words:
Father, I want to be a positive example, but some days I’m the worst one in the house. Forgive me for the times I’ve pointed my family away from You. Thank You that Jesus is the perfect example I’ll never be. By Your Spirit, help my spouse and me live today in a way that makes our kids—and everyone watching—want to know You more. When we fail, give us humility to repent out loud and grace to start again. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Try one of these today:
- Let your kids (or spouse) catch you reading your Bible or praying—even for 2 minutes.
- Apologize out loud for one specific thing today (‘I’m sorry I spoke harshly—will you forgive me?’).
- Tell your family one thing you love about how Jesus shows up in our home.
I pray that these verses meet you where you are today and encourage you to be a positive example to those around you!
God bless!
Melissa
