Role Models (NIV 1 Timothy 4: 11-16)

As we are growing up, we [subconsciously seek role models in our lives] look to others to see a role model. Most would look towards a parent or older sibling, but those are not always the greatest. A healthy role model is someone who seeks after a holy life for God: someone who is selfless, loving, kind, and has a heart for the LORD. As a Christian, you would be looking for someone who is spiritually healthy, just as Timothy did towards Paul. Without these healthy role models in our life or those in the Scriptures we lose the goals that God has given us. Paul shows Timothy how to be healthy a healthy role model in Christ in 1 Timothy 4:11-16

                  11 "Command and teach these things. 12 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. 13 Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching. 14 Do not neglect your gift, which was given you through prophecy when the body of elders laid their hands on you.

15 Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see your progress. 16 Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers."

(Bold added for importance)

Going through these bolded parts, each has importance:

Command - set standards and don’t lower them no matter what

Teach - inform everyone of these set standards

Set an example - Show the standards through you in speech, actions, love, faith, and purity.

Devote yourself - Prioritize

Public reading of Scripture - It’s not just tradition, but important to grow with those around you

Preaching and Teaching - Showing others, through words AND action

Gifts - God gave you something amazing as a gift. USE IT!

Diligent - Be an expert in Scripture--in holiness

Give yourself wholly to them - Put your all into the LORD.

Watch - Pay Attention

Life - The way you live

Doctrine - What you believe in

Persevere - Follow through, and NEVER give them up.

Just as Timothy had Paul to guide the way for him, who do you have in your life to do the same? A sibling, relative, or maybe even a friend, but I would recommend an adult the church, if not a leader, or a pastor. Someone who is older and more wise, so they would be able to give you sound advice in times of trouble, and just words of encouragement because they’ve been in your shoes before. I challenge you to find a mentor or a role model if you do not yet have one, because it will change you.