‘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 36th weekly devotional recap of the year. This week, we discussed the responsibility of a believer to be an example in conduct, love, spirit, faith, and purity.
On Monday, we learned about being an example in conduct. We are ambassadors of Christ in this world. Like Daniel and his friends, we ought to be excellent at everything we do, understanding that our conduct shows other believers what’s possible and influences people’s perceptions about Christianity. Through the help of the Holy Spirit, we can be examples in conduct, bringing glory to God (Philippians 2:13, Matthew 5:16).
Tuesday’s devotional reminded us to be examples in love. Just like our perfect example, Jesus, we must demonstrate God’s love to the Church and the world (John 13:35). We can show God’s love by speaking kindly to people and by forgiving and helping people. Our love must speak through our daily actions as it isn’t dependent on what people do to us but what God’s word says (1 John 3:18, 1 John 4:19).
On Wednesday, we learned about being an example in spirit. The influence of the Holy Spirit in us has discernible expressions. It is evident in our zeal and passion for God and His affairs. It is also seen in our yielding to Him – producing godly fruits (Galatians 5:22) and in our demonstration of the gifts of the Spirit (Acts 8:1-8).
Thursday’s article instructed us to be examples in faith. Your conviction and expression of faith can inspire faith in other believers (Hebrews 10:24). In Hebrews 11, we are reminded of what many saints of old enjoyed and endured because of their faith. Their faith stories are written to encourage us in faith just as our faith stories should encourage other believers (Hebrews 6:12). Let us endeavour to write our own faith story.
On Friday, we discussed being an example of purity. To show the world what it means to be a true believer is to live a life of purity. Purity should be reflected in what we do and why we do what we do. Living in purity shows that we honour God, and we do this by renewing our mind with the word and staying consistent with the truth of God’s word (Psalm 119: 9).
Sometimes, all people need is the right example, like Jesus and Peter (Matthew 14: 25-29). Apostle Paul encourages us to be that right example to fellow believers and the world, and with the help of the Holy Spirit, we can go forth and show the right example.
Have a lovely weekend.
Bible Reading Plan: 1 Kings 20-21