My Haven daily devotional from 8/3
In 1 Timothy 4:12, Paul encourages his young protégé with these words: “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.” Though directed to Timothy specifically, this verse reminds all of us that our most powerful influence often comes not through our words alone but through the pattern of our lives.
We tend to underestimate the impact of our daily choices. Every interaction—how we speak to the customer service representative, respond to criticism, prioritize our time, or handle disappointment—creates ripples of influence that extend far beyond the moment. People are watching, not to catch us in hypocrisy, but because they’re looking for authentic examples of faith lived out.
Paul outlines five specific areas where our example matters: our speech (how we talk about others and what we choose to discuss), our conduct (how we behave when no one’s looking), our love (how we treat those who can’t benefit us), our faith (how we respond to uncertainty and challenges), and our purity (how we steward our bodies and minds).
Take a moment to evaluate yourself in each area:
- Where do you feel your example is strong?
- Where might it need alignment?
Then consider who might be watching your life—children, coworkers, friends, neighbors. You don’t need a platform or a position to influence others; you just need the courage to live consistently with what you believe. And remember, setting an example isn’t about projecting perfection; it’s about demonstrating what it looks like to follow Jesus honestly, even when you stumble.