You Are An Example

1 Timothy 4:12

Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.

Being a right example is critical for others to learn how they should live. We all have learned from someone. We have learned good and bad from the examples of others. Paul implores Timothy to be an example of the believer. Being an example of the believer means that new believers need to have an example of the Christian life to follow so they know how to live. It does not matter that we live in days when people tell us that we should not copy men because God expressly commands that we are to be an example of the believer. This means, even though Paul was talking to Timothy as a preacher, Timothy was to be the example of the believer so believers would know how they are to be examples to those that they lead. There are several areas where we are commanded to be an example.

First, we are to be an example in word. In other words, what we say does matter. We should be an example by being honest. We should be an example of how to talk as a believer. Our words matter; therefore, we are to be an example to everyone around us of how we should talk as believers. Believers should always be honest, they should keep their word, and they should never use the world's lingo to identify with the world. Talk like a believer should talk so you can be an example to the next generation in word.

Second, be an example in conversation. This is being an example of how to live. We should show others how to live the Christian life, and how to dress as a believer. Our conversation should match our word. If we say one thing but live another, our example will be tainted by dishonesty. Be sure your conversation is an example of how believers ought to live their daily lives in this world.

Third, be an example in charity. In other words, we are to be an example of how to serve God with love. Charity is invested in love; therefore, we should show others how to serve God by investing our lives in others. You are an example of how to serve the Lord, and if you only serve to punch a clock, you will never be a good example of charity. Live your life investing in others, and you will portray a Christly example of serving God in charity.

Fourth, be an example in spirit. Your attitude does matter, and you should have the type of spirit that exemplifies the spirit of Christ. Be sure your spirit is uplifting and cheerful so that people know that you don't have to be a grump to serve the Lord.

Fifth, be an example in faith. This is not just talking about what to believe, but it is also talking about how to attempt great things by faith. Your life should be an example of how to attempt great things by faith for God. Others will never live by faith if you never attempt great things by faith. Show others how to live by faith and not to quit when it gets hard so that they will have an example to follow when they step out by faith.

Sixth, be an example in purity. The quickest way to ruin your testimony that you have built over the years is by living an immoral life. My friend, five minutes of pleasure is not worth losing a lifelong testimony that you have built for Christ. Live a pure life your entire life, and your pure life will validate that the Christian life is the best life.