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"Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity" (1Timothy 4:12).Timothy was a young man when Paul wrote these words to him, explaining that he was not too young to set a good example. It is a reminder to all of us, regardless of our age or the length of time that we have been believers. God has called each of us to live out our faith as a model for other believers.Paul then listed some actions and attitudes to which 1 Timothy needed to give his attention:Devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture (4:13)Devote yourself to preaching (4:13)Devote yourself to teaching (4:13)Do not neglect your gift (4:14)Be diligent in these matters (4:15)Give yourself wholly to these matters (4:15)Watch your life and doctrine closely (4:16)Persevere (4:16)Although some of the items addressed by Paul may be specific to Timothy and his gifts, there is much we can learn from this passage about how God calls us to live.We need to study God's Word to know what we believe and we need to live out those beliefs. The words persevere, be diligent, give yourself wholly, and watch closely, all signify the great importance placed on how we live.The way we talk, the way we interact, the way we love, how faith is evident in our lives, as well as the purity of our words and actions are all elements of how our lives should demonstrate our faith in God.People are watching.Paul tells Timothy to do these things so that everyone will see his progress (4:16). We are called to live our lives honestly and transparently before others.Paul also says that those who watch and listen will be saved by our example (4:16).What better reason can there be to set a good example?
Suzanne Benner