What do we mean?
As the New Year of 2015 came around the corner, we as the Dinuba church of Christ needed to clearly understand our goals. In our search, we came up with the goal that each and every one of us as Christians here at the Dinuba church of Christ be those who "Grow as Examples." This goal can and should be accomplished in many different areas. We as members at the Dinuba church of Christ will be:
Growing as examples spiritually:
In 2015 and beyond, we as members will grow spiritually. Others will be able to look at us and see how to live spiritually right with God. We will grow spiritually as we work on our worship, prayer life, study habits, church attendance, and our relationship with God. People will see our worship and know how to correctly worship God. As we grow in these areas together, we will be the shining spiritual example God wants us to be for all. (Colossians 1:10; Hebrews 6:1)
Growing as examples ethically and morally:
In 2015 and beyond, we as members will grow ethically and morally. We will work to be those who always do what is ethically and morally right. We will grow in our understanding of Christian ethics so that we can be that example for others. We will understand and follow what is morally right. As we grow in this manner, others will be able to come to us with ethical and moral questions, and we will be able to guide them correctly. (2 Peter 1:5)
Growing as examples evangelistically:
In 2015 and beyond, we as members will grow as examples evangelistically. We will work on understanding why we may be afraid of talking to others about God and the gospel. Together we can face and overcome those fears and evangelize more. We will make efforts to get better at talking to our family, friends, coworkers, etc. about God and the Bible. In our growth, we will understand that we are vital in the growth of the church. We will become that evangelistic example for all. (Mark 16:15-16; Matthew 28:18-20)
Growing as examples benevolently:
In 2015 and beyond, we as members will work on being more benevolent. We will look for more ways to help others as well as the church. Others will be inspired to be more helpful and benevolent in their lives as well. (Mark 6:33-44; Acts 11:27-30)
Growing as examples in our family lives:
In 2015 and beyond, we as members will grow as examples of good parents, grandparents, children, spouses, etc. We will grow closer to God as we do better in these relationships. We will work on our parenting, and being the spouse God wants us to be. As we do this, we will be an example for others looking to do better as parents, husbands, wives, etc. (Proverbs 18:22; 31:10; Exodus 20:12)
Growing as examples in our workplace:
In 2015 and beyond, we as members will grow as examples of good employees and employers. We will work hard and do the jobs we are given. We will be the example for our coworkers to see. We will treat those under us fairly. We will inspire them to work harder and be better employees. We will show others that our disciplined behavior is all because of our obedience to God. (1 Peter 2:18-20)
Growing as examples as citizens:
In 2015 and beyond, we as members will grow to be better citizens. We will work at obeying the traffic laws as well as all other laws. We will grow to be outstanding citizens so that others can see how they should act and obey the laws of the land. (1 Peter 2:13-15; Romans 13)
From now on, if someone asks us what we are all about, we will be able to say that we are all about “Growing as Examples.” People will be able to look at us and understand completely how to live a life for God. May we all “Grow as Examples.”