This article is part of the Key Bible Verses series.

All commentary sections adapted from the ESV Study Bible.

1. James 4:6

But he gives more grace. Therefore it says, “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.” Read More

God’s grace will be extended to those who are humble before him; cf. Proverbs 3:34 (cf. also James 4:10; 1 Pet. 5:5). “God opposes” means he resists and sends judgment, for the proud have chosen the praise and the methods of the world and are acting as God’s enemies (James 4:4).

2. Psalm 75:4

I say to the boastful, ‘Do not boast,’
and to the wicked, ‘Do not lift up your horn; Read More

“Lift up your horn.” The horn is a symbol of power (cf. 1 Kings 22:11; Zech. 1:18–21), and thus to lift it up (or “exalt” it) is to make a public assertion of power. God warns the ungodly not to lift up their horn, and promises that he will lift up the horn of the faithful. The term “lift up” recurs throughout the psalm (Ps. 75:4–6, 10). To “cut off” the horns (Ps. 75:10) is to render powerless and to humiliate.

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3. Jeremiah 9:23–24

Thus says the Lord: “Let not the wise man boast in his wisdom, let not the mighty man boast in his might, let not the rich man boast in his riches, but let him who boasts boast in this, that he understands and knows me, that I am the Lord who practices steadfast love, justice, and righteousness in the earth. For in these things I delight, declares the Lord.” Read More

The truly wise man (Jer. 4:22; Jer. 8:8–9; Jer. 9:12–14) learns what God teaches; he knows why Judah will fall and is grieved and humbled by that knowledge; thus he will not boast in his wisdom. Knowing God means knowing his steadfast love (covenant faithfulness), justice (right judgment), and righteousness (right behavior, esp. In keeping his promises). See Exodus 34:6–7; Psalm 103:8; Joel 2:12–14; Jonah 3:9-4:2. Paul applied the admonition “let him who boasts boast in the Lord,” based on this text, to the Corinthian Christians (1 Cor. 1:31; 2 Cor. 10:17).

4. 1 John 2:16

For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride of life—is not from the Father but is from the world. Read More

In warning against “all that is in the world”, John does not demonize the whole created order (cf. Gen. 1:31). Rather, he gives examples (“desires of the flesh”, etc.) of what the believer should guard against. Human desires are part of God’s creation and therefore not inherently evil, but they become twisted when not directed by and toward God.

5. 2 Corinthians 10:12

Not that we dare to classify or compare ourselves with some of those who are commending themselves. But when they measures themselves by one another and compare themselves with one another, they are without understanding. Read More

Paul is speaking ironically: though his opponents say he is “bold” and “strong” in his letters (2 Cor. 10:1-2, 10), Paul does not dare to join them in their kind of self-recommendation; they are without understanding because their criterion for boasting (one another) is wrong. The opponents recommend each other by comparing their abilities, spiritual gifts, and experiences, all of which are irrelevant for establishing apostolic authority in a church.

6. Deuteronomy 8:2–3

And you shall remember the whole way that the Lord your God has led you these forty years in the wilderness, that he might humble you, testing you to know what was in your heart, whether you would keep his commandments or not. And he humbled you and let you hunger and fed you with manna, which you did not know, nor did your fathers know, that he might make you know that man does not live by bread alone, but man lives by every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord. Read More

“Remember” is a key word in this chapter (also Deut.8:18), along with its antonym “forget”: Deuteronomy 8:11, 14, 19. Remembrance is demonstrated in obedience. The wilderness test was to reveal the state of Israel’s heart. This does not imply that God did not know but rather that he desired for Israel’s heart to produce evidence of obedience. Manna literally means “What is it?” (Ex. 16:15); it was not to their liking (Num. 11:6; Num. 21:5). The testing was also to teach Israel that man does not live by bread alone, but man lives by every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord. Real life derived directly from God and trusting his word (“word” could also be translated “thing spoken of”). This was the learning that Israel needed in its heart (Deut. 8:2) if it was to pass the test in the land (Deut. 8:17). This is the first of three verses from Deuteronomy quoted by Jesus in his temptation, affirming his confidence and determined faithfulness toward God (Matt. 4:4; Luke 4:4; see also Deut. 6:13, 16).

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7. Mark 7:20–23

And he said, “What comes out of a person is what defiles him. For from within, out of the heart of man, come evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, coveting, wickedness, deceit, sensuality, envy, slander, pride, foolishness. All these evil things come from within, and they defile a person.” Read More

“What comes out of a person” repeats Jesus’ earlier teaching (Mark 7:15). Here he mentions specific sinful thoughts and actions, and characteristics of a defiled heart, summarizing his teaching in Mark 7:23: “all these evil things come from within.”

8. Romans 11:18–20

Do not be arrogant toward the branches. If you are, remember it is not you who support the root, but the root that supports you. Then you will say, “Branches were broken off so that I might be grafted in.” That is true. They were broken off because of their unbelief, but you stand fast through faith. So do not become proud, but fear. Read More

Gentile believers are warned against arrogance, for it is God’s saving promises (the root), not their own goodness, that saved them. Thus Gentiles might be tempted with pride because God removed the Jewish branches from the olive tree and grafted them in instead. But this should provoke fear and awe (Gk. phobeō, “to be afraid, have profound respect and reverence, have fear of offending”), for the Jews were removed because they failed to believe and the Gentiles remain only because of their continued trust.

9. Proverbs 18:10–12

The name of the LORD is a strong tower;
the righteous man runs into it and is safe.
A rich man’s wealth is his strong city,
and like a high wall in his imagination.
Before destruction a man’s heart is haughty,
but humility comes before honor. Read More

Proverbs 18:10–11 describe two types of security (the LORD and riches), while Prov. 18:9and Prov. 18:12 describe two things that bring about one’s destruction (laziness and pride). Taken together, these proverbs imply that riches can give a false sense of security that leads to laziness, pride, and a downfall, but that humility and the fear of God exalt people.

10. Proverbs 15:25–33

The LORD tears down the house of the proud
but maintains the widow’s boundaries.
The thoughts of the wicked are an abomination to the LORD
but gracious words are pure.
Whoever is greedy for unjust gain troubles his own household,
but he who hates bribes will live.
The heart of the righteous ponders how to answer,
but the mouth of the wicked pours out evil things.
The LORD is far from the wicked,
but he hears the prayer of the righteous.
The light of the eyes rejoices the heart, and good news refreshes the bones.
The ear that listens to life-giving reproof will dwell among the wise.
Whoever ignores instruction despises himself,
but he who listens to reproof gains intelligence.
The fear of the LORD is instruction in wisdom, and humility comes before honor. Read More

These proverbs are framed by a contrast: the LORD opposes the proud (Prov. 15:25), but is near those who act in humility born out of the fear of the LORD (Prov. 15:33; cf. Prov. 15:25). Proverbs 15:24-32 expand on this by illustrating the pride of the wicked as represented in their: thoughts (Prov. 15:26), greed for unjust gain (Prov. 15:27), harmful speech (Prov. 15:28), and refusal to listen to reproof (Prov. 15:32). These are the opposite of the way of the righteous represented in: gracious words (Prov. 15:26, Prov. 15:28), maintaining justice (Prov. 15:27), and heeding instruction (Prov. 15: 31, Prov. 15:32). At the center of this section is the further reminder that the Lord is far from the wicked, but hears the prayer of the righteous (Prov. 15:29).

The Power of Really Asking “What Would Jesus Do?”

Heather Adams

What Would Jesus Do grew out of the Biblical concept of the “Imitatio Christi,” or the “Imitation of Christ,” one of the teachings stressed in The Roman Catholic Church. Thomas a Kempis wrote a book with the title Imitation of Christ in the 1400s. John Wesley later built on the foundation of this theme, adding a social welfare component.

Inspired by Kempis’ book, the preacher Charles Spurgeon peppered one of his sermons with the phrase “What Would Jesus Do?” in 1881 in London. The Reverend A.B. Simpson composed a hymn that year using that phrase as the name. But Reverend Charles Sheldon was the one who introduced it to a wider audience. 

In 1890, Reverend Sheldon was leading the Central Congregational Church of Topeka, Kansas. He had been growing increasingly frustrated with the lack of attendance at the Sunday night services there, and decided to try a new approach to his messages.

Sheldon acknowledged the challenges of imitating Christ while living in modern society. So, he came upon the idea of composing a string of what he called “sermon stories” to address this point in his late Sunday meetings. Each week, he presented an episode that depicted a moral dilemma someone might face. The messages all ended with a cliffhanger, and the question, “What would Jesus do?” Attendance at Central Congregational quickly surged.

Encouraged by the response, Reverend Sheldon wrote a book in 1896 titled, In His Steps, which continued on this theme of making choices in daily life that reflect the values of Jesus. Because of a defective copyright, 70 different publishers in America and beyond ended up publishing the book. A bestseller, it was eventually translated into a number of foreign languages as well.

One of the stories, about how a newspaper editor applied the question, “What Would Jesus Do,” inspired the Topeka Daily Capital editor to invite Sheldon to take over his paper for a week. In March of 1900, readers saw, instead of the usual stories, reports about social reforms, missionaries, and fundraising efforts for India. Ads that the Reverend found offensive were taken out or re-worded. The experiment was a great success – many people around the world subscribed for the week.

Garrett W. Sheldon, Reverend Sheldon’s great-grandson, published an updated version of the book and called it What Would Jesus Do?: A Contemporary Retelling of Charles M. Sheldon’s Classic In His Steps.

Photo credit: Unsplash/Ben White

It sounds simplistic, but to be able to answer the WWJD question correctly, we have to be familiar with what Jesus did during His life and ministry. The books Matthew, Mark, Luke and John in the New Testament are the authoritative sources about how Jesus lived. Reading and studying the four Gospels is the perfect first step toward responding like Jesus.

Though WWJD refers to New Testament history, awareness of Old Testament truths is important for us, too. Jesus often reminded the disciples that He was the Son of God, and that “whatever the Father does the Son also does” (John 5:19). God’s commands in the Old Testament were the basis for Jesus’ teachings in the Gospels – quoting related passages gave context to His listeners. One example is in Matthew 5, during the Sermon on the Mount.

“You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall not commit adultery’” (Matthew 5:27).

“You shall not commit adultery” (Exodus 20:14).

Many times, Jesus taught His lessons plainly and directly. But on some occasions, Jesus spoke in parables, or stories such as these, to teach a life principle. 

The Good Samaritan (Luke 10:30-37): We are to show God’s love to others, treating them with respect.

The Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30, Luke 19:11-27): We are to use our gifts (time, talent, treasure) to grow God’s Kingdom.

The Rich Fool (Luke 16-21): We are to be generous and share our blessings.

While exploring what Jesus would do, it’s instructive to take a look at what Jesus wouldn’t do as well. In short, Jesus refused to do anything that would dishonor God. So, all of His actions were aimed at bringing glory to His Father. 

Several accounts in the Gospels show His unwillingness to tolerate anything that stood against God. He continued to praise God as He was repeatedly tempted by Satan in the wilderness (Matthew 4:1-11, Luke 4:1-13, Mark 1:12-13). He openly rebuked the religious leaders for unrighteous practices (Matthew 7:5, 15:7-9, 23:29). Even as Jesus faced crucifixion, He remained obedient to His Father’s will (Matthew 26:39).

“What Would Jesus Do?” is so much more than a saying for Christians – it’s a habit that encourages right living. But when a phrase is around long enough, it can start to be used casually, or even fade away altogether. Knowing the origins of WWJD and how it has inspired so many before us actually adds to its relevance today.

Photo credit: ©Getty Images/kevinschreiber 

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Heather Adams is an author, speaker, and singer living in Connecticut. Heather’s passion is to equip and encourage believers to seek more of God’s truth and to experience more of His joy each day. Her book, Bow Down: The Heart of a True Worshipper is a practical, 30-day devotional about worship based on the writings of King David. Heather’s blog, Worship Walk Ministries, offers weekly Scripture passages and insights to ponder. A native New Englander, Heather is settling into her home in the South, trying out local foods and watching for the alligators that live nearby! You can connect with her on her website: heatheradamsworshipwalk.com

God wants a relationship with us and promises to reward those who seek to draw closer to Him (Hebrews 11:6). Here are some things each of us can do to foster a greater relationship with our creator.

1. Pray.
This is how we talk with God. It’s an open line of communication that allows us to build a relationship with Him. Remember, prayer is about you and God, so be humble and don’t make a show of it to others. “But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you” (Matthew 6:6 NIV). Not sure how to pray? Check out the template Jesus gives us in Matthew 6:9-13— otherwise known as The Lord’s Prayer.

2. Read the Bible.
This is how we know who God is and how He works—because Scripture is literally His inspired Word (2 Timothy 3:16-17). As we study the Bible, we understand God’s purpose for our lives, so it’s important to consider the context of what we read. We’re told to meditate on the Word day and night (Joshua 1:8), so take your time. Just like other relationships, there’s no need to rush things with God. Remember, everything is in His timing already.

3. Give thanks.
When we properly show gratitude by obeying God’s commandments, we’re acknowledging what He’s done for us.

4. Practice humility.
Pride is selfishness, which goes against God’s Will. Being humble allows us to be used by God, as He shows favor to those who put His Will above their own (Proverbs 3:34).

5. Memorize scripture.
As humans, it’s natural for us to sin. But committing scripture to memory stores it in our heart and makes it less likely for us to sin (Psalm 119:11). “All Scripture is breathed by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness” (2 Timothy 3:16 ESV).

6. Honor God with your body.
Maintain good health, keep your purity and use your body only in ways that glorify God. “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore, honor God with your bodies” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20 NIV).

7. Start and End your day with God.
Bookend your days with gratitude toward God, so He’ll be on your mind all day. 

8. Take thoughts captive.
Cut out the distractions, as frivolous and ungodly thoughts negatively impact our relationship with God. Remember, it takes conscious effort to identify and eliminate distraction from our lives. Rather than asking God to remove distractions, ask Him to identify them to you—then for the strength to overcome them.

9. Give back to God.
Earnestly give the best of every part of your life to God—time, money, possessions, thought, etc.—as a way to show gratitude. “Whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:6-8 NIV).

10. Take communion.
Participate in a public gathering of believers to remember the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, along with what His actions accomplished (Luke 22:19-21).

11. Repent of sins.
If we confess our sins to God, He will forgive them and make us right (1 John 1:9). However, if we deliberately sin, His sacrifice no longer remains (Hebrews 10:26). So, if you’re struggling with a particular sin, it’s better to remove yourself from any environment where you’ll be tempted to act on that sin (Matthew 5:29).

12. Keep a journal of blessings and answered prayers.
Continually remind yourself of God’s faithfulness and His blessings.

13. Sing Praise.
“Is anyone among you suffering? Let him pray. Is anyone cheerful? Let him sing praise” (James 5:13 ESV). We serve an all-powerful, all-loving God who saved us from eternity in hell. We should be cheerful about that.

14. Fast.
Scripture (Luke 5:35) recommends temporarily abstaining from necessities, like eating, to intensify our dependence on God through prayer (1 Corinthians 7:5). This helps us to put our sole focus on Him before important decisions. Matthew 6:16-18 gives insight on what our fasting should look like.

15. Share the Gospel.
As believers, we’re commanded to tell everyone the full Gospel (the Good News) of Jesus Christ through our words and actions (Matthew 28:19-20). Don’t worry about persuading anyone to believe this message, as it’s the Holy Spirit’s job to change people’s hearts (1 Corinthians 2:1-5). We just need to clearly communicate it and demonstrate it in a Christ-like manner.

16. Rejoice in the Lord and be glad in it.
We’re commanded to be joyful. If you’re having difficulty doing so, talk with God. You may have an unresolved sin issue. So confess, repent and return to the joyful life that God has planned for you.

17. Tend the earth.
Nurturing plants is nurturing God’s creation—not only by fostering beauty but by raising nutritious, life-sustaining food. “Then God said, ‘I give you every seed-bearing plant on the face of the whole earth and every tree that has fruit with seed in it. They will be yours for food’” (Genesis 1:29 NIV). Share your bounty with others, particularly homeless shelters. “And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased” (Hebrews 13:16 NIV)

18. Bring order to your home.
Just like our bodies, God commands us to be in control of our family and possessions. Drive out chaos by keeping a tidy home and developing systems to help everyone in the family be more efficient with their time and resources. “For if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how will he care for God’s church?” (1 Timothy 3:5).

19. Seek guidance from wise counsel.
God places these people in our lives for a reason. “Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but a wise man listens to advice” (Proverbs 12:5 ESV).

20. Do good works.
“In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead” (James 2:17). We’re not saved by our good works—as only Jesus’ death and resurrection does that—but they are a sign of a true believer.

21. Respect those in charge.
“Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is not authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. Therefore, whoever resists authorities resists what God has appointed, and those who resist will incur judgment.” (Romans 13:1-2 ESV).

22. Fellowship with other Christians.
Be careful who you spend time with, as their thoughts and actions will impact yours. Fellow believers will encourage you in your walk with God. “Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? Or what fellowship has light with darkness?” (2 Corinthians 6:14 ESV).

23. Forgive Others.
“For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses” (Matthew 6:14-15 ESV). Forgiving those who’ve wronged us allows us to heal and return our focus to God.

24. Avoid things God hates.
“There are six things that the Lord hates, seven that are an abomination to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked plans, feet that make haste to run to evil, a false witness who breathes out lies, and one who sows discord among brothers. My son, keep your father’s commandment, and forsake not your mother’s teaching” (Proverbs 6:16-20 ESV).

25. Help others in need.
Demonstrate the love of Christ by going out of your way to help less the fortunate without expecting anything in return. But rest assured, God will reward those deeds (Romans 2:6).