“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” – 1 Timothy 4:12 (NKJV)
Have you ever heard the saying, “You become what you behold”? It is more than a catchy phrase; it is a truth that shapes our daily lives. Studies show that people living within half a mile of green spaces reported 30% fewer mental health issues. This reveals how our environment, what we see, what we hear, and what we surround ourselves with can deeply influence who we become.
In the same way, our spiritual environment has a profound effect on our faith. The things and people we consistently behold shape our image of who we can become in Christ. Scripture warns us that “bad company corrupts good character” (1 Corinthians 15:33). Your faith can either flourish or falter depending on the atmosphere you cultivate. Even Jesus understood this; before raising Jairus’s daughter, He removed the mourners and doubters from the room (Mark 5:39–40). Faith thrives in an atmosphere of belief, but it withers in the presence of fear and doubt.
We see another example in Abraham. When God called Abraham, He gave him a picture to anchor his faith: “Look toward heaven and count the stars if indeed you can count them. So shall your offspring be” (Genesis 15:5, ). Abraham’s faith began with what he beheld. The vision God gave him transformed what he believed, and what he believed shaped who he became.
Today, we know Abraham as the father of faith (Romans 4:11). His life became a visible expression of trust in God. And just like him, we are called to live in such a way that our faith inspires others. In 1 Peter 5:3, Apostle Peter encouraged believers to be “examples to the flock”, showing that faith isn’t a private possession, it’s a public testimony.
The writer of Hebrews reminds us to “spur one another on toward love and good deeds” (Hebrews 10:24). The Apostle Paul often celebrated this truth in his letters. He pointed to the Macedonian and Corinthian churches as examples of faith and generosity (2 Corinthians 8:1-7). Their faith stirred others to trust God more deeply. That’s what true faith does, it’s contagious. It awakens courage and conviction in those who witness it.
As believers, we carry the presence of God wherever we go. You can be the light in a dark room, the voice of peace in a tense space, the faith that inspires others to believe again. Apostle Paul’s charge to Timothy in our anchor Scripture still rings true: “Set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity”.
Dear believer, you are not merely a reflection of your environment, you are a reflection of Christ within it. Let your life be an atmosphere of faith, peace, and grace. When others behold your walk with God, may they see Jesus and be encouraged to trust Him more deeply.
Bible Reading Plan: Jeremiah 46–48; Titus 3
