Our Scripture reading today is 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."
We are example for others whether we think we are or not. What kind of an example are we for those we have influence over? The Apostle Paul gives Timothy a list of things he is to consider with regards to his being a godly example. The very first one stands out to me this morning. Timothy as well as all believers are to be a godly example in how we speak. No matter what the little saying says, there are words that do great harm. They can leave deep wounds that continue to echo in our ears for many years.
By God's grace, we can use our voice to edify, encourage, and equip. Our words should be guarded by the Spirit of God. Psalm 141:3, "Set a watch, O LORD, before my mouth; keep the door of my lips." It should be our daily prayer that whatever comes out of our mouth would be honouring and pleasing to the LORD. Psalm 19:14, "Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer." Be an example today that always speaks the truth in love! Proverbs 8:7, "For my mouth shall speak truth; and wickedness is an abomination to my lips."