Apostle Peter teaches that every Christian is called to live a lifestyle of change — to live in a way that follows Christ’s footsteps. Following Christ will change a person’s life. For some, the changes may seem more profound and dramatic. As believers, we are called not just to admire or acknowledge Jesus from a distance,but to follow Him closely and walk in His steps. In 1 Peter 2:21, the Apostle Peter writes: “To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example that you should follow in his steps.” This call to follow Jesus is not about mimicking His actions or words superficially, but about embracing the very essence of His character and mission. Jesus’ life provides the perfect model for living in a fallen world— with holiness, love, humility and unwavering faith in God. But how do we practically follow His steps? Peter gives us clear guidance in his epistle, outlining the key ways we can live like Jesus. These principles are not mere ideals or lofty goals, but commands that should shape our daily lives and attitudes.

The first step in following Jesus is to be holy. To be holy means to live a life set apart for God, reflecting His purity, righteousness and love. It is a call to live differently from the world, just as Jesus did. 1Peter 1:15 says: “But as he which hath called you is holy, so, be ye holy in all manner of conversation.” Holiness involves turning away from sinful patterns and living in obedience to God. Holiness means aligning our lives with God’s commands and purpose.

Our lives should mirror God’s love, mercy, and purity. Holiness is living in reverence for God, honouring Him in everything. Believers are called to be holy. God is holy and believers are called to reflect His character (1Peter 1:16). Jesus lived a life of holiness and we are to follow His example. Holiness allows for a deeper relationship with God.

Another way to follow Christ’s footsteps is to love. 1Peter 1:22 teaches that we love one another with a pure heart. Love is a central theme in following Jesus. His sacrificial, unconditional love is the model for how we should love others. • Today’s nugget: Believers are called to live out Christ. Prayer: Lord help me to reflect Christ in my lifestyle. Prayer lines: 08033299824.E-mail: [email protected]. Rev. Abel UkachiAmadi, General Superintendent, Assemblies of God Nigeria

What it means to love is to sincerely love others from the heart, with actions, not just words. True love overlooks offenses and seeks reconciliation. “Love covers over a multitude of sins.” (1 Peter 4:8).

Submission to God is another way of following Christ’s footsteps. Submission is yielding to authority and God’s will, following Jesus’ example of humility and obedience. As believers, we are to obey and respect those who are in authority whether government or religious leaders as an act of honouring God. “Submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human authority,” (1 Peter 2:13).

Christian couples are to submit to themselves in marriage. Wives are called to submit to their husbands in love, while husbands are called to love sacrificially (1 Peter 3:1-2). Ultimately, submission means yielding to God’s authority and trusting His plan. “Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand,” (1Peter 5:6).

Another footstep of following Christ is witness for Christ. It is sharing the gospel through our lives and words, pointing others to Jesus. Jesus was the ultimate example of living out and proclaiming God’s truth, and we are called to do the same. We are called to make disciples and share the gospel (Matthew 28:19). Our witness honours God and makes His greatness known.
• Today’s nugget: Believers are called to live out Christ. Prayer: Lord help me to reflect Christ in my lifestyle. Prayer lines: 08033299824.E-mail: [email protected]. Rev. Abel UkachiAmadi, General Superintendent, Assemblies of God Nigeria