Scripture to Read: 1 Timothy 4:12
Today our focus is on 1 Timothy 4:12. Many who are working through this devotion today are no longer “young” in the world’s eyes and yet many others still are. No matter what our chronological age might be, we must live our lives so that no one has any reason to “look down on” (think less of) us. God wants us to live our lives above reproach (criticism) so that our words and lives bring honor and glory to Him. God specifically tells us that we must live as an example to others in five different areas. First, our speech (our words) should be a godly example to others. What comes out of our mouths, whether we like it or not, has a huge impact on everyone who hears us. God makes it clear how we must guard the words that come out of us (Matthew 12:34, Ephesians 4:29, Ephesians 5:4, Colossians 3:8, Colossians 4:6, James 3:3-12). Second, our conduct (behavior) must be a godly example to others. Our actions and attitudes must imitate Christ, so others see Him through our behavior (Matthew 5:48, Luke 6:46, Ephesians 4:32, Ephesians 4:32, Ephesians 5:1-4, Philippians 2:3-5, Colossians 3:12-16). Third, our love must look like the love of Christ, unconditional. Jesus makes this clear in John 13:34-35, and, of course, in hundreds of other Scripture passages. Jesus tells us that how we love will let everyone else know we belong to Him. His love changes lives eternally.
Challenge & Application
1. What did God teach you today about your conduct and the kind of example you are living out in front of others?
2. How would you describe your speech, conduct, and love in light of God’s Word today?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!