Philippians 3:17
The Example

If people who never read the Bible, want to learn about Jesus
They should be able to know something about Him whenever they see us
There should be enough of a difference in me that those who live in sin
Would recognize, even though I’m a man, in practice I am different to them.

My speech should be with gracious words so I don’t have to shout
To declare my allegiance to God when I am around and about
The things that I say should be trustworthy; they should know I tell the truth
When I buy or sell a thing, they should know its real worth.

In my dealings with others, those who are poor or of a different race
I should not base my response to them on what they have or on their face
For to God each one is worth more than the whole material world
If they come from different nations, I should keep my own flag furled.

My lifestyle should not be flamboyant even though I am not poor
To flaunt my success or riches would close people’s ears for sure
It is better if I become like them as close as it is possible to be
Not practicing sin or patronizing, but joining with them in empathy.

If I am to follow the example set forth, when it comes time to eat
I will eat what the others are eating, and not take the highest seat
My like and dislikes I will hide, not allowing my face to express
Some kind of inner aversion, so I can other people bless.

Some differences to me may seem funny but it would be wrong for me to laugh
To make some careless comment perhaps would be a social gaff
The Lord, when He was here, could identify with needs of those in sin
And like Him, I too should connect that I some souls would win.

Paul was a pattern example; he focused his life on Christ
Now I must follow the same way even though there is a price
The end of the life of example can be either good or bad
I want those who follow to know in their lives, the blessings
I for a lifetime had.