Being an example
“Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity” (NKJV) I Timothy 4:12.
Among the Jewish people, as with many other nationalities, it is usually the older men who lead. Paul himself, by the time of this letter, was old. Timothy was comparatively young. Notwithstanding, Paul admonished him to be of good standing with these godly virtues (I Timothy 4:12).
In a contemporary world of numerous challenges in our Christian lives; we are encouraged to live such exemplary lives worthy of our calling in Christ.
In words, we should be tactful with what we say to ourselves being mindful of the consequences of our words to a fellow. Colossians 4:6 reminds us that our speech should always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that we may know how we ought to answer one another. Also in Ephesians 4:29, we are urged to be watchful with our words/speech.
In conduct, we should continue to carry ourselves in a good manner acceptable by all standards. At times, it is not all good enough to just speak well, rather much is taught by the good example we set by our lives (I Corinthians 11:1, Titus 2:7, II Timothy: 10, II Corinthians 3:2).
Beloved, with these and several other virtues as love, faith and living a pure life in the sight of God and men, we would continue to journey on as the light of this world.
May God help us to be good examples to ourselves and others; even as we live in a generation of enormous challenges. Amen.