AN EXAMPLE. 1Timothy 4:12 Authority in Christian leaders relies more on character than age. A leader should serve as a model in speech, actions, patience, and love by demonstrating the right spirit and attitude toward others, and by showing faith, moral purity, and integrity. When someone has the responsibility to lead and teach, they must exemplify these qualities themselves. Respect must be earned through exemplary conduct and attitude. Living out Christ daily and maintaining consistency involves the entire person—body, soul, and spirit—to be kept blameless.
Godliness must be cultivated. It doesn't happen by chance or wishful thinking. A godly servant of the Lord lives out the word he preaches. Physical exercise has no true benefit for the soul. We don't need to worry about physical exercise, but we should focus on what has eternal value. The godly minister isn't afraid to work and understands that suffering is part of godly living. His life should serve as an example for others.
Paul instructed Timothy to be an example in five areas. “In word” refers to his speech and how he communicates it. “In conversation” relates to his way of life and behavior. In spirit and love, he would demonstrate the love of God; “in faith” means that he trusts God, and “in purity” involves moral purity in his thoughts and actions. These qualities and characteristics of life require desire and deliberate effort. A Christian's testimony can either strengthen God's work in the Gospel or expose it to condemnation.
What would I expect to see if I knew someone living nearby claimed to be a Christian? I would watch to see if he lived consistently—not just saying one thing and doing another, and not considering me a bother. When I was outside, he would come over, and we could be friendly as we pass the time of day. Then, I would pay attention to what he said and observe the kind of life he led. I would look for the reasons behind his actions and maybe realize I should look ahead.
I would observe the example set by that young believer and see in him moral and righteous behavior that he knew was consistent with Christianity. When the moment seemed right, and he asked for a favor, I’d listen as he told me about His Savior. I couldn’t ignore him if he wanted to speak a sincere word, so I would know he believed there was a God. To him, it is real because he says Jesus is Lord; He would be mine if only I would turn to God for salvation and turn away from sin. Christ was willing to pay the entire cost of redemption on the cross, and I’d be eternally free from its consequences.
His manner of life assured me he had experienced this; there was a calmness and peace in him that he wanted me to have. When he told me forgiveness was God’s work, not his, that placed a value much higher than what we possess. He appreciates God and all He has given, and he tells me that God loves me and wants to save me.
The spirit of my young neighbor is so kind that I would think twice before quarreling with him. I know his meek spirit is priceless; there is a truth in him that is neither earned nor sold. He trusts his God with genuine faith; what he possesses is authentic – he is not a pretender. He carries himself with a simple grace that crosses boundaries and enters my thoughts. His life is a model; he is sincere in purity, never abandoning his moral commitments for any opportunity. There is respect for us; I can trust him completely, and his moral standards stay steady. That young believer in Christ has everything together; if I could choose, I would much rather be like him than the neighbor who thinks the young Christian is an imposter.
It is up to those who encourage others to do what is right for the right reasons. Encouragement is never out of place. Many people need to be encouraged daily to "keep on keeping on." Opportunities to do good should be seized each day. Timothy "professed a good profession" [6:12] at the start of his life as a child of God. A good minister of Jesus Christ personally holds and publicly preaches "good doctrine" [4:6]. He makes it a point to practice "good works" [5:25] as a response to God's grace. He has a "good report of them that are without" [3:7] and who are forming opinions on what it means to be a Christian. He maintains a "good conscience" [1:5, 19], knowing he lives constantly before the Lord. He also strives to persevere in that "good" thing [2:3] as public prayer is called and piety ("good" thing) at home with his wife and family [5:4]. He recognizes his challenges because he is engaged in "good warfare" [1:18]. Through his consistency, he will earn a "good degree" [3:13] of approval and lay a "good foundation" [6:19] for what lies ahead.
A good servant of Jesus Christ lives with grace before his family members and coworkers in the workplace, doing "random acts of kindness" whenever possible. He also encourages others to do the same by affirming their actions with a smile, a kind word, a pat on the shoulder, or a handshake. He may even write notes or send emails that align with the principles of encouragement. Start with encouragement: it makes people happy to work with you. Only expect others to do what you are willing to do yourself.
People resent unfairness, and "do what I say, not what I do" falls flat and on deaf ears. Develop expectations. Point out their skills and gifts. Recognize the value of their experience and maturity. Understand that people will only fit in and be able to do some things - not everything. Be patient with those who are slow. Evaluate your expectations and set reasonable goals for others. Be sure to encourage by sincerely appreciating a job well done. Learn to praise honestly, not flatter.