‘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
You might’ve heard the phrase, “Practice what you preach” This statement emphasizes the need to practice what you profess in words. In a society where it’s common to have inconsistencies in one’s actions, it’s crucial to purposefully demonstrate what it means to be a true believer by living a life of purity.
Purity should be reflected in what we do and why we do what we do. It applies to our character and conduct as believers. We must strive to please God, and our decisions and actions must align with what we know to be true, appropriate, and excellent from the Word of God (Romans 3:14).
Living a life of purity is rooted in honor and reverence for God. It is shown in our actions and inactions, coming from a place of understanding that we have been ransomed from impurity by the sacrifice of Jesus. At salvation, we were made righteous, but it is important to know that we are continuously transformed and are enabled to live a life pure and consistent with our new nature when we renew our minds. (Romans 12:2, 2 Corinthians 5:17, 21)
The Word of God is described as a washing agent, showing us that a man can only attain purity by the word (Psalm 119:9, Ephesians 5:26). Our world view must be through the lens of the word.
Another way to live pure is to approach situations from a place of consistency with truth and not with compromise. Irrespective of the contradictions of the world, we find our solace in the word, having a sincere singleness of mind as we honor what is sacred to God which is a worthy example to others.
As our ultimate purpose as believers is to know God and to make him known, the world must see the light of Jesus through us in all that we do enabling us to do the work of reconciliation more effectively.
Finally, striving for and maintaining purity affects all aspects of your life. A pure heart will show in your thoughts, words, choices, attitudes, relationships, and more. Remember that your living in purity benefits not only you but also those around you, so strive to be an example in purity.
Bible Reading Plan: 1 Kings 17-19