I Timothy 4
By Pastor Libby
Give them a Chance
No matter a man or woman’s physical age, appearance or background, when God breaks into their lives, we as a body of believers need to give them a chance to be heard; whether it is in music, preaching, or teaching.
Here in I Timothy 4 we are introduced to “Instructions for Timothy.” Timothy was one of Paul’s companions and fellow laborers in Christ. We assume that Timothy is a young man at this time (around 30) and perhaps needs a pep talk from Paul. His youth has in some way come into question as to how Timothy is able or mature enough to preach the Gospel to those in his care.
There are times when I have felt like Timothy, especially when I was younger and having a need to prove myself in different areas. Frequently this verse in I Timothy would become my mantra. Yet just because I was young didn’t give me the right to say or act however I pleased; as someone who has the call of God on their lives our first priority is… to please God.
No matter if you are 13, 30, or 60 the words that Paul shares with Timothy are important. When we face conflict or come up against those who don’t want to hear what we have to say I Timothy 4 is a mantra but it’s also a recipe for holy living. We need to set an example for all believers no matter our age “in speech, in life, in love, in faith, and in purity, devoting ourselves to reading the Scripture and preaching and teaching.” With this encouragement in mind we then can use our God given gifts to multiply the Kingdom here on earth rather than by tearing it down in our own selfish desires and need to prove ourselves. When we are walking the straight and narrow it leaves very little room for others to point fingers and hurl stones.
And no matter if you are 13, 30, or 60; let us open up our ears and our hearts to hear what God has to say through youth, and older people, who desire to serve the Lord with all their heart, mind, and strength.
Click here to read I Timothy 4
