Brothers, join in imitating me, and keep your eyes on those who walk according to the example you have in us. (Phil 3:17)

Were you ever frustrated by the hypocrisy of your school teachers?

I still remember a boiling hot summer’s day when as I was leaving school, I and a group of friends were stopped and forced to tuck our shirts in by our English teacher. He stood there, his shirt entirely untucked and, with an all-to-smug smile on his face, said: “Do as I say, not do as I do.”

That may work in school. Or in the workplace. Or in the army. Or amongst the rulers of the gentiles.

It is not OK in the church.

We are to focus our attention on following and imitating are those who live the life. Instead of looking out for people who are getting it wrong, we should all be on the lookout for those who are getting it right and be prepared to shamelessly copy them.

Rip
Identify what they are doing that is good.
e.g. a guy who is careful to let his wife know that he loves her.

Mix
Work out what that would look like for you.
e.g. you should let your wife know that you love her – not his!

Burn
Start doing it.
e.g. kiss her.

Rip. Mix. Burn. The health of your soul might just depend on it.