“My dear children, I write this to you so that you will not sin. But if anybody does sin, we have an advocate with the Father—Jesus Christ, the Righteous One. He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world. We know that we have come to know him if we keep his commands. Whoever says, ‘I know him,’ but does not do what he commands is a liar, and the truth is not in that person. But if anyone obeys his word, love for God is truly made complete in them. This is how we know we are in him: Whoever claims to live in him must live as Jesus did.”  I John 2:1-6

I have been in discussion over this subject with several different people lately.  Today I came across this verse again and just fell in love with it because it makes my point crystal clear.

I have known many people who are considered a man of virtue but when push comes to shove it is just an outward appearance for the show.  It makes me think of the Pharisees; they were considered men of God but in name alone.

Anyone can say they believe in God and live by His standards but if the actions of your heart do not demonstrate and match that then you are just a wolf in sheep’s clothing.

Don’t fool yourself into thinking that you can go to church, Bible study or tell someone you will pray for them when in reality you do not “know Him.”  Make no mistake, when your time comes for the gates of Heaven to accepting-ly open for you or the gates of Hell to swallow you whole, if you did not know Him than He will not know you.

I am striving to live my life as a “virtuous man (woman)” and that means I strive to know Him, doing as He did.  I will learn His truth and strive to live it out daily.

Do not just be a man of virtue, be a virtuous man.