We know also that the Son of God has come and has given us understanding, so that we may know him who is true. And we are in him who is true by being in his Son Jesus Christ. He is the true God and eternal life. (NIV)

Many of you are probably familiar with the phrase “spitting image” or “spittin’ image” which most often refers to a child looking just like a parent. Oftentimes children not only look like their parent(s) but also behave like them. This could be attributed to the concept of social learning theory, which was developed by Albert Bandura, a psychologist and professor at Stanford University in the 1960s.  His famous Bobo doll experiment revealed that we often imitate the behaviors that we are exposed to, whether good or bad.

John 1:14 tells us that “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us” and in John 10:30, Jesus clearly states “I and the Father are one”.    Jesus was the physical embodiment of what we read in Scripture and provides us with a visual representation of God’s nature and character.  Therefore, by knowing Jesus, we will truly know the Father.

In 1 Corinthians 11:1, Paul states “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ”. This is social learning theory at its finest because Jesus is the perfect role model. If we follow His example, we won’t be led astray. Scripture says to be perfect as our heavenly Father is perfect (Matthew 5:48) and to be holy because He is holy (Leviticus 11:45). To all my perfectionists out there, I’ll tell you as a recovering one that perfection can never be achieved on this side of heaven because in our flesh, we are fallible. Jesus is the only perfect one who ever lived and who ever will live. Thank God for His grace which is sufficient for our weaknesses (2 Corinthians 12:9). The principles here are to follow the examples of loving God, loving others, and living righteously because He knows that this leads to the best outcomes for us. As believers, we should strive to look more and more like our heavenly Father. The process of sanctification is becoming more holy through the transforming work of the Holy Spirit in our lives as we seek to follow Jesus’ example.

In nursing school, we learned not only about nursing theories, but also about their practical application. We had the opportunity to put these theories into practice through skills labs, clinicals, and shadowing more experienced nurses. I quickly came to realize that sometimes things aren’t done exactly as we learned in theory. Over the years nurses may develop more efficient ways of doing things and become more flexible in their approach all while maintaining patient safety and standards of care. Issues arise when nurses neglect the fundamentals, placing themselves and others at risk. If a less seasoned nurse were to follow their example, it could lead to dangerous consequences.

Jesus has set the standard for us so that we won’t be led or lead others astray. While He created each of us uniquely and has grace for our imperfections, He knows that there are dangerous consequences when we venture outside of the standards that God has set for us, and it keeps us from experiencing the abundant life He came to give us (John 10:10). Jesus didn’t always do things in the most conventional way (which upset the Pharisees), but He always followed His Father’s lead and example. He was the “spittin’ image” of the Heavenly Father.

So how can we look more like Jesus, and in turn like our Heavenly Father? We can start by reading His word which is foundational to the life of the believer. It’s hard to obey commands that we know nothing about. Another important aspect in the life of a believer is being around more seasoned saints who can encourage and assist us along the way. Look for the fruits of the Spirit (love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control - Galatians 5:22-23) in others who are farther along in their faith journey and soak up their wisdom. Over time, you will begin to resemble your Heavenly Father more and more.  

Heavenly Father, we want to look like you in word, thought, and deed so that when people see us, they will glorify you (Matthew 5:16). We want the world to know that we are your disciples by how we love one another (John 13:35). Help us to follow the lead of Jesus who modeled your commands so beautifully. Amen.