Be An
Example
“Be an example to the believers in word, in
conduct,
in love, in
spirit, in faith, in purity.” — 1 Timothy 4:12
A
high school senior, honored as one of the
"Best & Brightest" in our community, has provided a forceful
demonstration of integrity. When his school team was given the word auditorium
in a regional spelling bee, Brady Davis glanced down to ponder his response and
noticed that the word was printed on the microphone stand. He called this to
the attention of the judges who responded with a more difficult word. Brady did
what he knew was right whether others noticed or not.
We
don't know when our actions might become an example to others. But if we live
each day to honor Jesus, our behavior will model His righteousness, no matter
who is watching.
Idealism
and enthusiasm are often best expressed by the young. But uprightness and honor
should be goals for Christians of every age. Paul told his young protégé
Timothy: "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
Brady
Davis says his goal in life is to change the world around him while never
compromising himself. We would do well to join him in that pursuit of life,
integrity, and exemplary behavior.
I would be true, for there are those who trust me;
I would be pure, for there are
those who care.
I would be strong, for there
is much to suffer;
I would be brave, for there is
much to dare.
A good example always
makes a good sermon.
From “Our
Daily Bread,” copyright 2006 by RBC Ministries,