1Timothy 4:12 Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.
As a preacher (despite not being very “young” anymore) the words of this verse are thoughts that I read often. I try my best to live up to the standard Paul places here.
I want to share with you my thoughts on what this verses is telling me.
Be an example in charity. This is the word used to describe Christian love. It is agapé in the Greek, and though “love” is a fine enough translation, the rendering of “charity” is very fitting, since this kind of love is the self-sacrificial sort. It involves giving to others, so that we have less and they have more. That’s charity in a nutshell. I need to be setting an example of charity for the whole congregation. I need to show myself willing to sacrifice to help others. If even the preacher lacks charity, what hope is there for those to whom he preaches?!
Will you help me be an example in charity? Help me to be to look outward and see those who are in need. And not only see them, but help me to reach them too. I promise to preach sermons that help you do that too!
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