Text: 1 Timothy 4:12 NKJV
Further Reading: Daniel 6:1-5
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.
1 Timothy 4:12 NKJV
MESSAGE
We live in a time when many people profess to be believers in Christ but their lives do not match up with their profession. It is very sad to see many who claim to be followers of Christ live below the life of Christ.
In our text of the day, the Bible admonishes us to live out the life of Christ in word, conduct, love, spirit, faith, and purity.
Is your speech always gracious? Do your words always glorify God? Can people be drawn to God because of the way you speak? Are you not worldly in your conversation? You must be a believer by how you speak, don’t just say I am Christian and you speak like the ungodly (Colossian 4:6).
How do you conduct yourself? Do you behave truly as a believer? Do you show love to everyone? The believer indeed must show the love of God to everyone who comes across his or her way (Mattew 5:16).
Another way to live as a true believer is to live a life of purity or holiness. The Christian must distinguish himself from every other person by living a life above reproach. He must not be found practising sin or unrighteousness (Matthew 5:48).
Do not forget that you are the epistle that men read (2 Corinthians 3:2). Many people refused to accept the message of the gospel because those who preach it live otherwise. Are you not turning many away from righteousness because of the way you live your life?
The believer must be an example of Christ-likeness in this world. By your conduct and lifestyle, many would be drawn to your God.
REFLECTION
Now then, we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were pleading through us: we implore you on Christ’s behalf, be reconciled to God.
2 Corinthians 5:20 NKJV
Daniel was not a mere believer by mouth but he was such through his deeds. He was so true to his God that even his enemies confess to his faithfulness in everything he does.
PRAYER
Father, please help me to be a true believer indeed so that my life would bring honour to your name.
