Our scripture this morning is 1 Timothy 4:10-13.
In fact this is why we work hard and struggle, because we have set our hope on the living God, who is the Savior of all people, especially of believers. Command and teach these things. Let no one look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in your speech, conduct, love, faithfulness, and purity. Until I come, give attention to the public reading of scripture, to exhortation, to teaching.
Paul writes to his pupil Timothy to encourage his ministry. While these words are for him, they are also for all believers, that we must be energetic in sharing the Gospel. This is the call we have from Jesus Himself.
While Paul says “let no one look down on you because you are young”, this lesson applies to everyone. Our position, education or experience doesn’t qualify us for service; only our love for God. The Holy Spirit is the fuel for outreach, guiding us to spread the Good News everywhere.
Paul says we must “set an example for the believers in your speech, conduct, love, faithfulness, and purity”. Jesus showed us how to love one another in this way and He expects no less from us. Paul passes this important lesson to Timothy (and us), with the hope we will carry on what we have received from Christ.
Gracious God, we are thankful for Your love and instruction, shown to us through the example of Jesus and the faithful who have gone before us. Bless us to go in Your name to share Your love everywhere. Amen.
