“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)
Last time we covered two ways one might serve as an example for future generations. We examined the value of exalting God’s Word and setting an example for others to follow. Hopefully, we all want to be a good role model.
Serving as a godly example to others is the third way you can set an example for others. A servant spirit is among the best gifts that one generation can give to the next. When each member of the church recognizes and utilizes their spiritual abilities inside the body of Christ, the church flourishes.
Every Christian is not only endowed by God with at least one spiritual gift, but the Lord also makes it possible for them to identify those gift(s) and expects them to be used for the good of the church and the wider community. The church will have a far greater impact on the kingdom if we lead by example and train future generations to use their spiritual abilities.
Lastly, inspiring the people of God is the fourth technique to be a role model. It is imperative that each generation demonstrates to the following that giving up is not an option. We cannot stop seeking the Lord and continuing to grow in Him. As far as Christianity is concerned, there is no such thing as stagnation. In the Christian life, you are either making progress or regressing. Either you are moving forward or you are slipping back. Right now, compared to last year, you are either doing less or more for God than you have ever done.
In other words, because we’re never going to get there, our generation needs to constantly demonstrate to the next that we’re striving. We have the power to inspire the next generation to never give up and to keep trying until good things, holy things, happen.
Do you lead an example-worthy life? If not, I pray these two devotions challenged you and that you will allow the Holy Spirit to work in your life and heart so that you might serve as an example of what it means to follow Christ to others.
Prayer: I’m grateful for the spiritual abilities you’ve bestowed upon me, Lord. I ask that you enable me to help others to see their gifts so that they can benefit others, as they serve you and others. I pray this in Jesus’ name, Amen!
