Deeper Life #193

Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.

—1 Timothy 4:12

WHEN PAUL SAID, “LET NO man despise thy youth,” he meant that Timothy should be an example to all who believe—in word, in manner of life, in love, in faith, and in purity. God grant that we too may be the pattern of what we teach!

The only way we can be saved from being despised is if our life is in keeping with the gospel and backed by our conversation, manner of life, purity, and upright behavior. The baptism with the Holy Spirit made the disciples the incarnation of what they taught. God grant that we may be the same—Christian workers “approved unto God . . . rightly dividing the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15).

Prayer Thought: I want to be helpful, not hurtful, to those who look to my life as an example of godliness.

SUGGESTED READING: Psalm 71:1–12