1 Timothy 4:12

New International Version

 

Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, and in purity.

 For Encouragement

The Akans of Ghana have a proverb: “When a child learns to keep their hands clean, they sit with adults to share a meal from the same bowl.” It is to recognize decency and reward the child with a place among the elders. Age and wealth by themselves do not bring recognition and respect. The way people carry themselves is what does it. Respect does not come on a silver platter. You earn it!  

Having a desire to be respected is meaningless without humility and decorum. However, someone who communicates with intelligence and wisdom can receive instant recognition and admiration. People regard them with 2a high level of respect. Paul emphasized this point to young Timothy in today’s focal verse.  

Paul advised Timothy to prioritize the high road in his speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity. These Christian character traits were essential, regardless of his youth. This way of living is noble and sets a good example.

Effective communication involves various elements, such as word choice, tone, gestures, body language, timing, and message quality. Nobody can ignore a youth who applies themselves to this.

Excellent Christian conduct has a premium value in life. It has marks of integrity all over it and reveals maturity. People recognize a youth who loves with passion. It is foundational to Christian life and one that shows Christlikeness and gains approval before God and people.

Paul encouraged Timothy to hold his faith up in attestation of his total trust in God and his unyielding commitment to Christ. As a youth in Christ, his faith could inspire others to devote their life to Christ and live for Him. Fidelity should be a hallmark of Timothy’s Christian living. This means Jesus must have pre-eminence over his life. As someone has said, the pre-eminence of Christ is all-encompassing.

“It leaves nothing in our life untouched. He must have absolute control over our life, that He may exercise His power and authority for our own good and for His glory. That is what God the Father has said about God the Son.”

As head of the church, the beginning and firstborn from among the dead, Christ must have pre-eminence in everything (Colossians 1:18).

Paul admonished Timothy to live a pure life, completely surrendering to Christ’s Lordship. A Christian life tainted with immorality cannot affect others (1 Timothy 4:12).

Paul’s guidance to Timothy applies to the youth of today. It encourages them to live in a manner that draws respect for God’s honor. As a youth in Christ, you have a responsibility to your Savior to live and bring honor to Christ, which celebrates your youth.

Prayer:

Father, please help our youth walk courageously with you in humility and in a manner that ministers to others and brings glory to your holy name. In Christ Jesus, amen.