Craig Clouston

 

Lead By Example

November 23

In everything set them an example by doing what is good.

Titus 2:7

Returning home from deployment in Afghanistan, Powerlifter and Bodybuilder Shawn Frankl felt led to train out of ‘Big Iron Gym’, in Omaha, Nebraska, because the owner, Rick Hussey, was a renowned trainer. 

That the gym was a two hour drive from Shawn’s home didn’t deter him. But after ten years, Shawn questioned whether he was making any impact there for Christ. He and his wife, Melissa, discussed his concerns but agreed to stay on at Big Iron. Shawn had never forced his faith on anyone at the gym, especially Rick. He’d just lived it out, and over time they realized he wasn’t a ‘One-Show Pony’…he believed in this God he served.

Rick was a great trainer, and Shawn did everything he was told. And because of Shawn’s commitment, Rick respected him. So when Rick’s cancer reemerged, he asked Shawn who he thought he should go to for treatment. Sensing the time was right, Shawn replied, “Rick, the only way you’re really gonna get fixed is to give your life to Jesus Christ.” Rick did just that…

Two months later, at Rick’s funeral, hundreds of people showed up to honor the man they’d all respected. Shawn had placed two-hundred Bibles on a table for anyone who wanted one. The pastor concluded his powerful message by inviting those who wanted to follow Rick’s lead to invite Christ into their hearts. When the funeral was over not a single Bible was left. People had indeed followed Rick’s example!

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The result of Shawn’s willingness to be Christ’s example at Big Iron Gym was Rick’s eventual salvation. Because of Rick’s reputation as the preeminent trainer in Powerlifting, people followed his advice. So at his funeral it was only natural that many followed his example and invited Jesus into their hearts. There will be people in Heaven who might have otherwise perished because Shawn led by example.

What we do as Christians matters. How we represent our Savior will have an impact on those who are watching. Like Shawn, we are meant to lead others to Christ by the example we set.

Prayer

“Lord Jesus, teach me to be a great follower so I can lead others to You. Amen.”