"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.” (I Timothy 4:12, NKJV)
The Apostle Paul in this letter to his spiritual son Timothy encourages him to be an example to others in his life and how he lives it. Timothy was a leader in his community and in his church. Paul lets him know his life must be lived in such a way that others will look at him and see the wonderful characteristics of Jesus.
My mother use to tell me something similar to what Paul told Timothy. Mom would say, “No matter where you go or what you do, somebody is always watching you.” Mom was so right. Not only is someone always watching us, there is always someone who wants to be like us.
We all must take seriously the words of Paul to Timothy. We must live our lives as an example of godliness before others. Our actions, attitudes and character must be of such that others can see Jesus in us. We must live so that our conduct is of such that others will admire and want to emulate how we live. In our homes, work, schools, communities and houses of worship, we all must be mindful to do the right thing and to live so that we might BE AN EXAMPLE.