Follow the Example of Jesus

April 29, 2026 / by Pastor Traig Whittaker

Jesus was the perfect human. He is much more than that, but at a minimum He is our example of unbroken relationship with God absent any obstacle of self-interest. His was a life lived in the undisturbed love of God.

Jude’s exhortation in verse 21 was to keep yourself in the love of God. What were some of the means by which Jesus accomplished this perfectly? It was neither accidental nor circumstantial; it was regular and routine. There was a rhythm to the way Jesus lived.

Jesus prioritized prayer. He kept himself in the love of God when He withdrew from the crowds, noise, and busyness to be alone with the Father.

Jesus was uncompromising in His obedience to the Father. He understood that to keep God’s commandments was to remain in the love of God.

In times of testing, Jesus relied on God’s word rather than human wisdom or ingenuity to keep himself in the love of God.

Jesus kept himself in the love of God by endeavoring to live His life for the glory of God.

Are there ways that we can more fully be transformed into the image of Christ and reflect the character of Christ in how we keep ourselves in the love of God?
Pursue quiet times and quiet spaces to be alone with God. Let abiding in Scripture remind you that you are God’s beloved son or daughter. Do not delay your obedience; practice it immediately so that you may more quickly and easily feel the love of God. Remember that your life has a greater purpose and is not about your own glory.

When our primary motivation is God’s plan and purpose rather than our own, we move out from under the weight of self-importance—where anxiety, pride, and insecurity find fertile ground in which to grow. Do you feel distant from God? It may be that your glory-seeking has created an obstacle, a barrier to keeping yourself in the love of God.

By seeking His glory we are constantly reminded of His greatness and goodness, which will stoke our affection for Him. Jesus perfectly put this on display. Let’s learn from Him and grow to be more like Him.

Pastor Traig Whittaker serves at East White Oak as our Senior Associate Pastor. His ministry responsibilities include oversight of the church’s Christian Education programs and administrative duties. Traig is married to Laura and they have four adult children.