A Seemingly Simple Word

Written By Carol

Have you ever noticed how small words can have a big impact? They truly can. Words like but, also, and yet may seem insignificant, still they have the power to transform simple statements—shifting tone, deepening meaning, and conveying possibility.

For instance, someone might say, “This is hard.” But add one tiny word—“This is hard, but…”—and suddenly what felt impossible now feels hopeful. Or perhaps, “I’m tired,” versus “I’m tired, yet I’ll keep going.” With just one word, weariness is transformed into perseverance.

The fact is, tiny words can reshape how we hear, understand, and respond. And this is something Jesus understood deeply—and leaned into intentionally. His words were never wasted. Every word He spoke, even the small, seemingly insignificant ones, carried weight and purpose.

One Tiny Word

Included in some of Jesus’ most significant statements is one tiny word that deserves our attention.  The word is as—a simple word, yet its implication is anything but.

You see, as is the word Jesus used to convey likewise, meaning “do as I do” or like me meaning “live as I live.” In essence, He was saying, “The things I do, you must do also”, and ”The way I live, you must live as well.”

And this is why understanding the full weight of this tiny word, and how Jesus used it is critical. You see Jesus’ use of as wasn’t intended as a mere suggestion. Instead, it was a standard for His followers then and now to reflect His character by living and acting as He did.

Jesus’ As Statements in the Gospels

The following are just some of Jesus qualifying as statements included in the gospels. As you read through these verses, receive them as Jesus’ personal invitation for you to follow His example. And remember, His Word is unchanging, timeless, and therefore relevant for us today.

  • Love others as I’ve loved you. – John 13:34

  • Treat others as you want to be treated. – Luke 6:31

  • Be compassionate as your Father is. – Luke 6:36

  • As the Father has sent me, I send you – John 20:21

  • Remain in my love as I remain in my Father’s. – John 15:9-10

  • Be perfect, as your Father in heaven is… – Matthew 5:45

How gracious is Jesus to not only model how we should live but also to invite us to live as He did. And this is the truth the apostle John spoke of when he said, “In this world we are as Jesus was” (1 John 4:17). And my friends this is not only an incredible privilege it is also a sober responsibility, and the opportunity of a lifetime. 

So today, consider the practical ways you can follow Jesus’ example—by serving, giving, forgiving, and living on mission with God in this world. And the next time you’re reading the Gospels and come across the seemingly insignificant word as, pause. Because it’s more than a tiny word—it’s a holy invitation. A call to live, love, and walk through this world as Jesus did. 

And I ask you—what could possibly be more beautiful, more purposeful, or more powerful than this?

Pray

Jesus, thank You for teaching me how to live through the example of Your life. I’m humbled by Your gracious invitation to live in this world as You did—loving, forgiving, and serving others well. I recognize this is not something I can do apart from You. Yet it is something You faithfully do through me as I trust and abide in You. For this, I am overwhelmingly grateful. I praise You, holy God. Amen.

Reflect

What’s one way you can reflect Jesus in your world today—in how you love, serve, or forgive?

Friends, I’d love to hear your experience! Feel free to share your responses in the comment section below, or with me and others HERE!

Carol
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Thoughts Matter