Bible Reflections From Scripture Union Volume OneSample

Setting an Example in Godliness
Read 1 Timothy 4:6-16

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. 1 Timothy 4:12

The opinions of the young are not usually taken too seriously in Asian society where those ‘who have eaten more salt than they have eaten rice’ hold sway. What can believers who are young in age do to earn their respect and more importantly a hearing for the Gospel within such a culture? How can they be good ministers of Christ?

A good minister of Christ must know the word of God and live it daily in order to earn the respect of others. He has to be taught and trained in the application of God’s word in all areas of life. He has to be able to teach the word effectively to others.

That was quite a tall order especially for a young person like Timothy but he was not alone. God will give special ability through His Holy Spirit to enable His children to live up to His high calling.

The danger is to be distracted by godless myths and old wives’ tales or idle talk that brings no benefit. The antidote is to cultivate godliness in both speech and conduct. Timothy was not to be cowed by the enormity of his assigned task but to persevere and be diligent in its execution. Time will prove the skeptics wrong and they will be won over if we persevere and make progress in living out the word of God.

Godliness is living for God and sharing His word.

Pray for all young Christians especially those who teach God’s word that they will set good examples for others to follow.B