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What Would Jesus Do?
Colossians 3:17 'And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.' (NIV)
 In his devotional book 'The Life You've Always Wanted', author John Ortberg poses an important question: What does it mean to do something 'in the name of Jesus?' 'Generally speaking, in the Bible,' he writes, 'a person's name has to do with his or her character. It means doing [something] in his character. It means doing it as Jesus himself would do it if he were in your place.' That's a radical concept, but it goes right to the heart of what real Christian discipleship is all about. Imagine what kind of life yours would be if you did nothing, or said nothing, before asking yourself the question: 'How would Jesus do or say this?' Imagine if you stopped to think how Jesus would do it before you spoke to your children at the end of the day, or before you greeted your spouse each morning. Imagine you asked that question before you drove your car today, or started work, or made that phone call to a business client. Of course, there are many things we do everyday that the man Jesus never did. But it's not the activity itself that counts; it's the attitude and character with which it is done. There's power in thinking through the values and the character with which Jesus would have acted in your specific situation. It certainly gives us pause for thought – and perhaps a reason to make adjustments in the way we live.
Prayer: 'Jesus, help me today to be aware of your character and how you would react in the situations I face. Help me to carry the light of your character into this darkened world, bringing your hope to those around me.'
© 2003-2004 Mal Fletcher
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I was much blessed to hear Mal in the Portuguese Conference in January. My expectations for life were lifted up! Thank you for the good work you've done in our Church!
Paula, Portugal
Mal Fletcher, I would just like to take this opportunity to say thankyou for the inspiration you are. I was at Rock Nations and found your ministry incredibly refreshing especially when you spoke on Celebrity and what happens when that creeps into the church.
Kendal , United Kingdom
Mal, I had the good fortune of hearing your wisdom on several topics, here in the USA. Thank you. I hope our paths cross again.
Koz, USA
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