Being An Example

". . . but be thou an example of the believers, in word,
in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity." 
I Timothy 4:12

Yesterday I wrote about the beauty and power of our morning worship service...

Before the minister came forward to give his sermon, however, I had the opportunity to speak to the congregation for about ten minutes. My message was on being an example - a good example - in every area of our lives, for we are Christ's ambassadors on this earth.

I read First Timothy 4:9-16 and I expounded on this portion of Scripture by asking the men to take the apostle Paul's words to young Timothy personally, putting ourselves into this passage as if Paul was talking to each of us.

I explained that the Lord wants us to mature and progress in our walk as Christians. Every area of our lives should show to everyone, both those inside and outside of the church, that our lives have truly changed.

And I reminded the men, too, that we must work on this inner aspect of the spiritual life each day. We need basic Bible study, I told them. And as we cooperate with God's Spirit and yield ourselves to Him, this important work of growth will be possible.

I assured the congregation that I had to do the same, and that his message was for me, too.

I think the message was well received.

D.B.