“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).
To “be an example” means to embody biblical virtues so that others, by observing your life, are inspired to walk more closely with God. One of the ways you can be an example is through your fervency in the Spirit.
The believer’s service and disposition toward the things of God should reflect fervency at all times. In today’s anchor text, Apostle Paul instructs Timothy to be an example “in the Spirit”. He makes a similar call in Romans 12:11, urging believers to be “fervent in spirit, serving the Lord.” To be an example in the Spirit, therefore, is to be passionate and consistent in your spiritual service to God so much so that others are stirred to do the same.
Jesus, our ultimate example, demonstrated spiritual fervour in ministry and devotion. His devotion communicated such intimacy with God that the disciples had to ask Him to teach them to pray (Luke 11:1-4). He gave His all in ministry, dying for our sins.
Throughout Scripture, we also find examples of believers who demonstrated this spiritual fervency. In Acts 20: 34–35, Paul modeled diligence and generosity, working hard to support others and give to the poor. In Acts 20: 18–20, he remained steadfast in preaching the Gospel despite persecution. Epaphras, in Colossians 4:12, was fervent in prayer. Timothy, in Philippians 2:19–20, exemplified sincere love and concern for others. These believers showed what it means to be examples in spiritual service, and so can you.
Remember, you carry the same spirit they did: the Spirit of Christ. The same power that enabled them to serve God faithfully is at work in you today. As 2 Corinthians 5:17 reminds us that those who are in Christ have a new nature and share in Christ’s ministry. This means that the possibilities of Jesus’ ministry enabled by the Spirit are also yours.
Dear friend, one of the markers of spiritual growth is when people begin to see Christ reflected in your life. So, let your devotion inspire others to pursue God with renewed fire. You can be the example that ignites fervency in the hearts of believers everywhere.
Bible Reading Plan: Jeremiah 40–42; Titus 1
