“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)
Welcome to the 44th weekly devotional recap of the year. This week, we began a new series on Christian conduct by reflecting on what it means to be an example as a believer.
On Monday, we learnt that our words are powerful tools that reveal the state of our hearts (Luke 6:45) and are a channel of ministry. Your speech can build faith or tear it down, strengthen faith or spread doubt. Being an example in word means that your words should consistently carry grace, truth, and love. Like Jesus, whose words carried healing and authority, whether you are correcting, comforting, joking, or teaching, let your words be seasoned with grace (Colossians 4:6).
Tuesday’s devotional reminded us that because actions often speak louder than words, we must be intentional about our conduct (Titus 2:7). Whether you realise it or not, someone is learning about faith by watching you. The way you work, respond to others, regard authority, handle correction, or show kindness reveals who you truly follow (Matthew 5:16). Your example can either draw people closer to Christ or make them question Him (1 Peter 2:12), so let your life tell the story of Christ’s grace. Be the example that points others to Him.
On Wednesday, we were encouraged to live lives marked by fervor, passion, and consistency in serving God, so much so that others are stirred to do the same. We have examples of people like Jesus (Luke 11:1-4), Paul (Acts 20:18-20), and Epaphras (Colossians 4:12), who modelled this fervency through prayer, service, and perseverance. The same power that enabled them to serve God faithfully is at work in you today, so let your devotion inspire others to pursue God with renewed fire. You can be the example that ignites fervency in the hearts of other believers.
Thursday’s devotional reminded us that because God is love and we are made in His image, the way we live should reflect Christ so clearly that others come to know love through us (1 John 4:7-8). Love is not something you put on when it is convenient; it is who you are because you are born of God. We love not because people deserve it, but because Christ first loved us (1 John 4:19, Romans 5:8). Love is the mark of every believer. May people see the heart of God simply because they met you. Be an example of love, not just in word, but in every action.
We concluded the week on Friday by learning what it means to be an example in faith. Faith grows where belief thrives and withers in doubt. We saw how Abraham’s faith was anchored by what he beheld, making his life a visible testimony of trust in God (Genesis 15:5). In the same way, 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 (Hebrews 10:24). Let your life be an atmosphere of faith, peace, and courage, so that when others see you, they see Jesus.
Dear believer, you are not just called to speak about Jesus; you are called to live like Him. From today, decide that in word, conduct, spirit, love, and faith, your life will reflect the nature of Christ to the world.
Have a blessed weekend.
Bible Reading Plan: Jeremiah 49–52; 1 Timothy 1–2
