What Does Being a Role Model Look Like?

• Posted: March 12, 2026

Every day, the children around us are learning from the way we live. They notice the everyday moments — how we speak to a waitress, how we choose patience during a stressful morning commute, or how we turn to prayer when something feels overwhelming.

Even if we don’t think of ourselves as role models, we naturally influence those around us — especially children.

The good news is that being a role model doesn’t require being perfect. It simply requires a willingness to keep pointing our lives toward Jesus and showing children what it looks like to follow Him in both the small and big life moments.

Following the Example of Christ

In 1 Corinthians 11:1, Paul writes, “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.”

Can you imagine boldly saying to someone “Do it like I do it, because I’m doing it like  Jesus.” That kind of statement requires courage and intentionality. Yet this is exactly the kind of life we are called to live.

And, Ephesians 5:1 reminds us, “Be imitators of God, as beloved children.”

Jesus is the ultimate role model, and our goal is to reflect His life to the children God has placed around us. 

So, what does modeling Jesus look like in everyday life? Let’s take a look at a few practical ways Jesus purposefully spent his time …

Time Alone with God

Spending time with God doesn’t have to be complicated. It might be praying while you drink your morning coffee, reading Scripture before the kids wake up, talking to God in the car on your way to work, or listening to worship music. When children see us making time for prayer and God’s Word, they learn that a relationship with God is a priority in our lives.

Time Serving Others

Jesus came to earth to humbly serve, meeting both the physical and spiritual needs of others. When we help people, show kindness, and care about their relationship with God, we reflect His example. Serving others teaches children what living out their faith truly looks like.

Time Connecting with Believers

Jesus also showed the importance of community. He invested in relationships and discipled others. When children see us worship, grow, and do life alongside other believers, they learn that faith was never meant to be lived alone.

Progress, Not Perfection

Being a role model doesn’t mean having everything figured out. It means allowing children to see a genuine faith being lived out day by day. It means showing them what it looks like to pray when life is hard, to serve others with humility, and to stay connected to other believers. Living a life that imitates Jesus requires work, and making your life a living example of faith for your child requires courage.

When we follow Jesus with sincerity, we give children something powerful to imitate. And that may be one of the most important lessons we ever teach. Remember, don’t just tell them how to live their faith, show them! Be their role model. 

Want more on this topic? Check out our blog, Identifying the Top 5 People of Influence in Your Kids’ Lives, or our podcast episode, Why Mentorship Matters in God’s Eyes.