“Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.”
— 1 Timothy 4:12
Timothy was quite young when Paul wrote him this letter. People weren’t taking Timothy seriously. Paul told him not to let anyone think less of him because he was young. So instead, Timothy chose to set an example. He showed the believers how grown up he was by how he lived, how he loved people, his faith, and his sexual purity.
Adults watch the actions of some youths — their drinking, violence, foul language, and drugs — and, without thinking, judge all kids as being alike. Here, Paul is giving you a guaranteed, sure-fire way to get the adults in your life to treat you with respect. If you set a good example of Christian conduct in what you say, in how you love and treat people, and in your spiritual walk — you’ll definitely get adult attention (the kind you want!).
Age and maturity don’t mean the same thing. Old people can be mature or very immature. Young people can be either one too. It’s your choice. Whatever you choose, you will be known for your behavior and respected (or not) because of it.
More to Explore: 1 Peter 5:3
Girl Talk: Do you ever feel passed over because you are young? Do you know that you can do as much for God as anybody else?
God Talk: “Lord, I want to do great things for you. Help me to find out what you want me to do with my life. Thank you for your guidance. Amen.”
From No Boys Allowed by Kristi Holl