Great Challenges Require Greater Character

Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity. — 1 Timothy 4:12

I am sure that right here, Paul is well aware that Timothy would likely disqualify himself. After all, Paul asks Timothy to engage in some very challenging tasks. He invites him to correct deceitful doctrine, quiet the contention of powerful women, challenge men to spiritual action, and establish qualified church leaders. Honestly, this sounds overwhelming. I think even Elon Musk would be intimated. It sounds more complicated than a Twitter takeover.

But remember, Timothy is not some well-aged experienced leader who has been down this path before. He is still young compared to the people he has to confront and redirect. And Paul knows this. But Paul has a rebuttal to this minor complication — it is the consistency of Timothy's character. It's his talk, walk, and faith in Jesus. Anchored in this, Paul knows that Timothy might face impossible odds and get thrown out, rejected, beaten, and despised, but his character will remain intact, and it will tell the long story about who we are because of who we follow.

So if you are dealing with significant challenges today, can I encourage you to do something? Give more attention to your character. Be an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity.

ASK THIS: What challenges are you facing, and how will this challenge your character?

DO THIS: Reflect on this and share it in the comments below.

PRAY THIS: God, prepare me and my character for the test before me.

PLAY THIS: Shoulders.