Be An Example To The Believers

“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.” — I Timothy 4:12 NKJV

Several people revere ministers of the gospel, especially the ones having many followers. But few think of becoming examples to other believers in Christ. I’m not referring to becoming a pastor or a minister purposely to get some followers. No! I’m saying, mimic the ways of God in your own life to the extent that onlooking believers will look unto your life and decide to follow God. We’re called to disciple people to become Christ-like and not to be like us.

No matter how great any servant of God is, he doesn’t replace Jesus in any Christian’s life. Hence, it’s good to listen to sermons, but everything you lend your ear to must point you to Christ. Look at what Apostle Paul taught Timothy.

At the time of Paul’s second writing to Timothy, he wasn’t physically working with the boy. That’s why you’ll see in the next verse that,

“Till I come, give attention to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine.” — I Timothy 4:13 NKJV

If he were there, he wouldn’t have used the phrase “till I come…”. Paul was teaching Timothy how to stand firm as a minister to be an example to the believers in his vicinity by checking his words, conduct, love, spirit, faith and purity. These are heavyweight collections.

See, no matter what you do, people are watching you. Unbelievers won’t understand your Christianity. That’s why Paul didn’t say we should be an example to everyone (but to believers alone). You don’t have to live to prove anything to anyone. But you must know that God is watching what you’re using that one life you have now to do. Live to please God so privately and consciously that your life will serve as an example to other believers, even without you knowing.

You’re a blessing.

Prayer

Oh God, I pray for the grace to live an exemplary life unto You, not because others are watching me, but because of the immense love and grace You’ve showered over my life. That is my request today. In Jesus’ name. Amen!

Devotional Code: KGD – 2023 – 028