Living Like Jesus in Our Everyday Lives

In our day to day lives we often find ourselves balancing countless responsibilities. Whether it’s caring for our families, managing work, or supporting friends, life can feel overwhelming. Yet, in the busyness, we often long for a deeper connection with Jesus—something more than just attending church or going through the motions. How do we truly live like Jesus in our everyday lives?

I recently read John Mark Comer’s book ‘Practicing the Way’, and I wanted to share with you how encouraging and practically helpful it has been for me. He offers a refreshing reminder that following Jesus is more than just believing in Him; it’s about adopting the lifestyle He modeled. Comer teaches that by practicing spiritual disciplines, we can grow closer to Jesus and experience true transformation.

Below I have summed up three key principles from the book that can help us live more like Jesus:

1. Be with Jesus: Cultivate His Presence Daily

The first and most essential practice is simply being with Jesus. Jesus Himself regularly withdrew to quiet places to pray, seeking the Father’s presence. Comer reminds us that the same is true for us today. Whether through prayer, reading scripture, or simply taking a moment to sit in silence, making time for Jesus should be our priority.

You might be thinking, “How do I find time for this when life is already so full?” It doesn’t have to be long hours; start with just five minutes a day. In those moments, turn your heart toward Jesus—whether that’s while having your morning coffee or on your commute. The goal is not perfection, but consistency. Over time, those small moments add up to a deeper, more vibrant relationship with Jesus.

2. Become Like Jesus: Embrace Spiritual Practices

The second step is to become like Jesus. How? Through the practices that shaped His life. Comer encourages us to embrace spiritual disciplines such as Sabbath rest, simplicity, and fasting—not out of obligation, but as a pathway to inner transformation. These practices help us slow down, re-center, and allow God to work in us.

You could try starting with one practice that resonates with you. Maybe it’s observing a weekly Sabbath, where you set aside time to rest and focus on God. Or perhaps it’s practicing simplicity—decluttering not just your home, but your schedule, so there’s more space for what truly matters. These practices help us become more like Jesus, changing us from the inside out. 

3. Do What Jesus Did: Love, Serve, and Shine His Light

Finally, Comer reminds us that discipleship is also about doing what Jesus did—loving others, serving the poor, and sharing the good news. As women in our church, we have a wonderful opportunity to shine Christ’s light in our homes, workplaces, and communities.

Maybe this looks like offering a kind word to a friend in need, or extending grace and forgiveness in a difficult relationship. It could also be serving in our church or local community, showing Jesus’ love through acts of compassion and generosity. We don’t have to do it all, but we can each take small steps to reflect the heart of Jesus to those around us.

If you’re feeling inspired but also a bit daunted, remember; it’s not about doing everything at once. Start small. Be intentional about spending time with Jesus. Pick one spiritual practice to incorporate into your life. And look for simple ways to love and serve others. Over time, these small steps will lead to big changes.

Let’s encourage one another as we practice the way of Jesus together—building lives that are grounded in His love, reflecting His light in everything we do.

Amy Penberthy