1 Timothy 4:12 "Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity."
Paul is encouraging Timothy, his protege, to set an example for all believers even though he is considered "young."
I turned 30 this year and am having a hard time with it. I don't know if I am young or old. In my job I feel old. I am a 30 year old youth pastor with 11 years of experience and I hang out with 13 and 14 year olds most days. On the other hand, I am only 30. I have most of my life still before me. I guess either way I look at it, Paul's instruction is still important for me. I must continually set an example to those around me in my speech, my life, my love, my faith and my purity. I cannot "coast" or take it easy because of my age and what I may have accomplished already. I must daily set an example because people are always watching me-Christ included!
Dear Jesus, help me to be a better example to my wife, my kids, my family, my friends, my students, my co-workers, my volunteers and my neighbors. Amen.
