"Do As I Say...!" (1 Corinthians 9:22-23)

“Can overweight doctors really help patients lose weight?”

A recent study examined this question. It probably comes as no surprise that doctors who are overweight do not inspire confidence in their patients when told they must lose weight. Many patients thought their doctors hypocrites for instructing them to lose weight when they could not do the same. It was a rehash of the old adage, “Do as I say, not as I do.”

But the results of this study are not as straightforward as it seems. The study also found that some overweight doctors may actually may have more success in prescribing diet medications to their overweight patients because these patients may perceive that heavier doctors may be more empathetic to their own plight.

There appears to be a fine line between patients accepting advice from a physician who does not appear to follow their own admonitions versus accepting advice from a physician whom they feel can empathize with them.

In my spiritual life, I have experienced a similar response from those to whom I have witnessed. Some look at me and question how I could empathize with their life situation? “Have you ever been homeless? Have you ever gone for days without eating?” With these people, I do not have any credibility nor do they feel I have the right to share the gospel or assist them. With others, they see my background and occupation and arrive at a completely opposite conclusion. “Wow, you are a physician and you are taking the time to help me out. I appreciate that.”

For though I am free from all, I have made myself a servant to all, that I might win more of them.

1 Corinthians 9:19 (ESV)

To the weak I became weak, that I might win the weak. I have become all things to all people, that by all means I might save some. I do it all for the sake of the gospel, that I may share with them in its blessings.

1 Corinthians 9:22-23 (ESV)

I understand and respect the opinions of both groups. The Apostle Paul succinctly outlined his goals when he shared the gospel. He tried to identify with all groups he encountered. Was he always successful? No. But he allowed the Holy Spirit to lead and guide him so that he could share the Gospel of Jesus Christ. He was more concerned about witnessing God’s grace and goodness than worrying about what others thought of him. I would do well to emulate this great saint of the Bible.

Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.