Being An Example

Paul wrote in Titus chapter 2:

1 But as for you, speak the things which are fitting for sound doctrine.

2 Older men are to be temperate, dignified, sensible, sound in faith, in love, in perseverance.

3 Older women likewise are to be reverent in their behavior, not malicious gossips nor enslaved to much wine, teaching what is good.

Our walk is seen by others and should be an example to the younger for they need to have a visible standard when considering their own walk.  Being temperate is walking in moderation in all things and not being given to excess or extremes.  This includes alcohol as well as anything else that might impair our walk.

Dignity is the state or quality of being worthy of honor or respect.  Younger people who are seeking FATHER’S Will should want to emulate your walk rather than being offended by it in some manner.  In Colossians chapter 1 by THE SPIRIT Paul wrote:

10 that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God;

11 strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, for all patience and longsuffering with joy.

When a person is being sensible he is seeking to walk in wisdom and prudence, taking care and being cautious about his acts and how they may affect others.  One’s words and actions can have a major impact on others and we should be careful about what we say and do.  Philippians chapter 4 provides us a guide to consider in our walk:

8  Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things.

As we walk consistently in faith we provide a certain level of stability for others to rely on.  As we maintain consistency in our walk and are reliable in our actions due to our faith, those around us will gravitate toward a similar walk.  People need reliability in their lives.  They need to be able to count on others in a time of need.  They need consistency in deed and word so that when the unexpected happens they have someone they can count on.  If someone you know is in desperate need, would they call you because you have a track record of reliability or would they seek help from another?

First and foremost we should be an example of walking in unconditional Love for all other qualities listed in Titus 2:2-3 are derived from Love.  As we grow older and hopefully more mature, our Love should be developed to the point where we are no longer as children tossed to and fro.  We now have the experience and the wisdom to know what is important and enduring in our lives.  We have seen and lived through many situations and this firsthand experience allows us to counsel the young when they are faced with similar circumstances.  Love wants the best for others and seeks to help in times of need.

Perseverance is being steadfast in doing something despite difficulty or delay in achieving success.  As we grow older we know how to work through problems and challenges because we have a better perspective in expecting a positive outcome.  Our past successes and failures combine to broaden our view when presented with notable challenges.  Projects which are overwhelming to the young can be addressed by breaking them up into smaller tasks.

In the end, the older should guide the younger into all Truth.  This can best be accomplished by being a living example of THE WORD and walking in FATHER’S Divine Intent.  Hopefully the young will listen and embrace the wisdom and understanding they lack.

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