EXAMPLE

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 – 1Tim.4:12

Our Father-God wants every child of His to be a virtuous EXAMPLE. Moreover, something in us enjoys having others follow our example, especially with regards to virtues, rather than vices. On the occasion of washing the feet of the disciples, the Lord Jesus said: “For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you” (Jh.13:15). That is, “Go, and be an example to others as I have been to you”! Peter confirmed that Jesus left us “an example, that you should follow His steps” (1Pet.2:21). Paul also encouraged the young pastor Timothy – his son in the faith – to be an Example to other believers; to teach them with his life: “by word, by demeanor, by love, by faith, by integrity” (1Tim.4:12 MSG). Elsewhere, Paul again admonished: “Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ” (1Cor.11:1).

Parents also, and fathers in particular, are meant to be worthy examples to their children (Eph.6:4). A true father is a portrait, a mentor, an example, and a role-model portraying positive influence and pointing to the Heavenly Father! He teaches and exemplifies the Word: diligently, incisively, repeatedly, pervasively, personally! And even though a father may not tell the children how to live; as he lives, they’ll watch and imitate. Christian children watch their parents walk with God, participate in church services, teach Bible-study class, and serve faithfully in various capacities. Where there's no model, there's a vacuum, and it will be filled. When parents refuse to or fail raise their children in an atmosphere of godly example, Satan will.

Here is an Old Testament transgenerational Example: Asa, king of Judah, modelled devotion to God for a season in his life (2Chr.14:2). He removed the idols from his kingdom, restored the altar of the Lord, and led the people into a covenant with God (2Chr.15:8-12). Asa’s son Jehoshaphat continued this legacy by seeking “the God of his father” and walking in His commandments (2Chr.17:4). Jehoshaphat purged the land of idol worship and sent out priests and Levites to teach God’s law all through Judah (2Chr.17:6-9). His reign resembled that of his father; he faithfully honoured Asa’s godly example. More importantly, Jehoshaphat’s “heart took delight in the ways of the LORD” (2Chr.17:6). Beyond every earthly father however, there is in our heavenly Father, a true Father to follow. We also should take delight in His ways. For people to imitate us, we must first imitate our Lord. If we have any reason for people to follow our example, it is because of Him, not us.

According to Titus 3: 1-8, the life God enables us to live is exemplary – a life of respect, obedience, diligence, and kindness that results from being born again through regeneration in Christ Jesus and renewal by the Holy Spirit who dwells within us. As we live a Spirit-led life, God will show the reality of His Presence to others through us. Whether we know it or not, as people of faith and followers of Christ, others are observing us; the world is watching us. A Christian is a living sermon whether or not he preaches a word. God wants you to honor Him in all that you do, and let your example challenge others to do the same. Jesus said, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven” (Mt.5:16). As God shows you and leads you in the way, your light will shine as an impactful example to mankind. The watching world will see His patterns, shining beauty, and Glory lived out in you!