Don’t let anyone look down on youx because you are young, but set an exampley for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faithz and in purity. 1 Timothy 4:12
In 2011, after a decade of childlessness, my wife and I chose to start afresh in a new country. Exciting as the move was, it required my living a broadcast career, which I missed. Feeling lost, I asked my friend Liam for advice.
"I don't know what my calling is anymore," I told Liam dejectedly.
"You're not broadcasting here?" he sked. I said I wasn't.
"And how is your marriage?"
Surprised at his change of topic, I told Liam that Merryn and I were doing well. We'd faced heartbreak together but emerged closer through the ordeal.
"Committment is the core of the gospel," he said, smiling. "Oh, how the world needs to see committed marriages like yours! You may not realize the impact you're having already, beyond what you do, simply by being who you are."
When a difficult work situation left Timothy dejected, the Apostle Paul didn't give him career goals. Instead, he encouraged Timothy to live a godly life, setting an example through his speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity (1 TIMOTHY 4:12–13 ,15). He would best impact others by living faithfully.
It's easy to value our lives based on our career success when what matters most is our character. I had forgotten that. But a word of truth, a gracious act, even a committed marriage can bring great change-because through them something of God's own goodness touches the world.
12 Don’t let anyone look down on youx because you are young, but set an exampley for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faithz and in purity. 13 Until I come,a devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture,b to preaching and to teaching. 14 Do not neglect your gift, which was given you through prophecyc when the body of eldersd laid their hands on you.e
15 Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see your progress. 16 Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will savef both yourself and your hearers.
INSIGHT
- Who has touched your life and what qualities did they have?
- How can you set an example of faithfulness today?
1 Timothy 4:12-16 is Paul’s encouragement to Timothy, a young pastor in Ephesus, urging him to lead with integrity despite his youth. Paul emphasizes being an example in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity, while devoting himself to Scripture, teaching, and the gifts imparted to him. He advises perseverance in these duties, which benefit both Timothy and those he leads.
This passage teaches that spiritual maturity, not age, defines leadership in the body of Christ. It inspires young believers to embrace their calling confidently and reminds the church to value character and godly living. For modern Christians, it emphasizes the importance of studying Scripture, exercising spiritual gifts, and serving others diligently. It also calls the church to foster and support its members in their growth, ensuring they fulfill their roles in advancing God’s kingdom. This timeless message strengthens both individuals and the collective body of Christ.
PRAYER
Dear God, help me to remember that the work I do isn't as important as the person I become. Please mamke me more like you. In Jesus name, I pray. Amen!!
Read: 1 Timothy 4:12-16 (NIV) | Bible in a Year: Ezekiel 40-41; 2 Peter 3
