Verse for January 25

I Timothy 4:12
Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity.

Paul wrote this letter to Timothy to give him some practical instruction about his role in the church at Ephesus. Timothy is considered to be one of Paul’s most beloved disciples. Paul was Timothy’s spiritual father and Timothy was one of his “proteges.”

In the culture of the day, there was a great emphasis on age and experience. Even though Timothy was in his 30s, he would have still been considered “young” by many. This verse is telling him that he needs to earn the respect of others by being diligent to be the example of maturity in five specific areas. His example would, most certainly, earn him the respect of others and as a result, his ability to minister to and serve others would be far greater.

While we are not all pastors, we should be disciplined to be an example to all in these areas as well.
The areas are:
• Word - this is his speech. All of his words, in every conversation should be in alignment with Ephesians 4:29, which says that we should speak ONLY words of encouragement and grace.
• Conduct - This is the holy, righteous living spoken of in Titus 2:10 and 1 Peter 1:15, which says “be holy in all your conduct.”
• Love - Read John 15:13. Our love for others should be sacrificial.
• Faith - this is not talking about the faith we have leading to salvation, but being faithful and committed to Christ and the glory of God. See 1 Corinthians 4:2
• Purity - Purity in all areas, especially sexual purity. Ephesians 5:3 says that there shouldn’t even be a hint of sexual immorality in a Christian.

As you memorize this verse this week, think through what an example in each of these areas should be and try studying each of the sections one day during the week.
For example: on Thursday, study “Word.” How important are your words. Look up words like mouth, tongue, lips, speech, word(s) in a concordance or Bible search and see what the Bible has to say about our words and what we communicate.
On Friday, do the same thing with “Conduct” then again on Saturday, etc. This way, you’re really living out the verse that you’re memorizing.

Check back on the blog and you might find some helps with that throughout the week.

Soli Deo Gloria!
Rob
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