1 Tim 4:6-16

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

Timothy in his teens to early 20’s when he joins Paul

trained in scripture by mother and grandmother

came to faith by Paul’s teaching

discipled by the local church (church disciple-cycle diagram)

Those Whom God Uses

Examples of young people God used:

Joseph Gen 39-45

Samuel 1 Sam 3

Jonathan and David 1 Sam 13-14

Josiah (national revival 2 Kings 22-23, 2 Chron 34-35

Jeremiah

Esther- for such a time as this

Daniel-

complete allegiance to God

pursuit of excellence

service in three administrations

prophet to coming messiah, inter-testamental period, and end times events

Qualities of Godly Servants

1 Timothy 4:7–8 7… train yourself for godliness; 8 for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.”

Faith over Experience- “God doesn’t call the equipped, He equips the called”

Readiness- they did not neglect the things of God. Faith was central to life.

Calling- Listen for His call

you will need to learn to be quiet (rest)

you will need to Discern

what burden do you feel the Lord placing on your life?

what are you prioritizing

which voices are you going to heed?

Targeted character traits:

sober minded (v7)- not given over to the silliness of pop culture

exercised in godliness (v8)

speech (v12)

conduct

Love

spirit

faith

purity

Discipleship Assignments:

Practice a God-ward life (immerse yourself)

Expect progress- talk to the Godly spiritual influences in your life

Guard the gates of your mind

Persist- stay with it!