1 Timothy 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”. (NKJV)
Have you ever felt too young—or too old—to do something important? Too small for a big job? Too inexperienced to contribute something meaningful? Too under-qualified to make a real difference?
In the Book of 1 Timothy, which is a God-inspired letter from Paul to his “son in the faith,” Timothy, Paul equips and encourages Timothy in things like doctrine, leadership, and living out the ways of God. He writes:
“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 NIV
If you’ve ever felt too young, remember that God has purposefully put you here, at this specific time in history. He desires to use your passion, drive, vision, energy, and ideas to magnify His glory. You see things from a unique vantage point, which is great.
If you’ve ever felt too old, remember that God has purposefully put you here, at this specific time in history. You have grit, wisdom, leadership, and the gift of life experience. You see things from a unique vantage point, which is great.
You are never too young, or too old, to be used by God. No matter your age, God has empowered you to love Him, love others, and live a life that points people to Him.
How can you do that? You can set an example—in the way you talk, in the way you act, in the way you love, in the way you live out your Faith, and in your purity.
You can be the example. You can represent Him.
God encourages young people to be examples to others and not to let their age be a reason for others to look down on them. Amen.
