Pattern Lives: Living Worthy of His Calling
Patterns with access to many fabrics
Reflections on A.B. Simpson’s Devotional
"To this end, we always pray for you, that our God will count you worthy of His calling, and that He will powerfully fulfill your every good desire and work of faith." (2 Thessalonians 1:11)
A.B. Simpson challenges us to live as “pattern men and women,” lives that God can reproduce in others for His glory. This high calling reminds us that every moment, every choice, and every test of faith has eternal significance.
God's Desire for Pattern Lives
Throughout Scripture, God has sought individuals whose lives reflect His purposes. These “pattern lives” serve as examples for others, inspiring faith, obedience, and dependence on Him. Abraham’s story on Mount Moriah illustrates this. His willingness to obey God, even when it seemed impossible, established him as a man of faith. God could confidently say, “I know him” (Genesis 18:19).
Today, God still searches for those who will live lives of faith and surrender. When we trust Him and walk in His ways, our lives become testimonies that He can use to draw others to Himself.
Life’s Tests and Eternal Impact
Simpson reminds us that every experience in life comes as a test. These tests are not arbitrary; they are designed by a loving Father who desires our growth and His glory. As we pass through trials, heaven watches with anticipation.
Angels and spiritual authorities observe the steps we take (Ephesians 3:10).
Our responses to challenges have eternal consequences, shaping our future and influencing others.
When Abraham passed the test on Mount Moriah, he received God's commendation and the privilege of being a father of faith to countless generations. Likewise, our trials can become opportunities for God to demonstrate His faithfulness and power through us.
Living Worthy of His Calling
Paul’s prayer in 2 Thessalonians 1:11 encourages us to live lives worthy of God's calling. This means aligning our desires and actions with His purposes. It also means trusting Him to work through us, fulfilling His will as we walk by faith.
Simpson points out that God watches with “intense and jealous love.” He longs for us to succeed, not in our own strength but through His Spirit. When we fail, He is not condemning but grieved, because He desires the best for us.
Reflect and Respond
Are you living a life that God could use as a pattern for others?
How have you responded to the tests and trials that God has allowed in your life?
Are you relying on His strength to fulfill the desires and works of faith He has placed in your heart?
A Prayer
Lord, thank You for calling us to be examples of Your grace and faithfulness. We surrender our lives to You, asking that You shape us into pattern lives that reflect Your glory. Thank You for your indwelling Life that strengthens us to face life’s tests with faith and perseverance, trusting that You are working all things for good. May our lives inspire others to walk closely with You and fulfill their own callings. In Jesus’ name, amen.
A Final Thought
God is looking for men and women He can use to inspire and lead others. Each test, trial, and victory is an opportunity to reflect His glory. Let us live worthy of His calling, confident that He is working in us to will and to do for His good pleasure (Philippians 2:13).