God’s Pattern For Life

Hold fast the pattern of sound words which you have heard from me, in faith and love which are in Christ Jesus.

2 Timothy 1:13

The most famous center in the world for men’s custom-made suits is London’s Savile Row. Napoleon III and Winston Churchill had clothes tailored there, as does Prince Charles today. On Savile Row, men’s suits are not sewn according to a pattern but according to the precise size and preference of the customer.

Custom-made may work fine when preparing a new suit, but eternal patterns are the procedure in the Kingdom of God. Those who dwell in God’s Kingdom through faith in Christ must learn that God’s pattern for life and godliness is the pattern—one size fits all. Rather than being restrictive, we find that God’s pattern for living provides for freedom and joy. Just as a car operated according to the manufacturer’s “pattern” (guidelines) provides the most problem-free use, so our lives are the most fruitful and enjoyable when lived according to God’s guidelines. And where is God’s pattern to be found? It is found in the pages of His Word.

The person who meditates on God’s pattern “day and night” will prosper in whatever he does (Psalm 1:1-3).

Nothing in the world can be properly understood unless it is understood in terms of God’s design and plan.

R. C. SPROUL