By Nadine Voogt
What is the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the word “youth”?
Is it a younger person with baby smooth skin, a full head of hair with not a single strand of grey?
A group of teenagers running around effortlessly playing an intense sports game with way too much energy?
How about your 18-year-old self? Young, Wild, and free.
Well ,let us take a closer look at what some scripture says about youth.
In 1 Timothy 4:12, Paul says “Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity. “
A possible interpretation of the Greek word for “youth” or “young” in this passage is referred to as: “grown-up military age, extending to the 40th year.” (https://enduringword.com/bible-commentary/1-timothy-4/)
Therefore, even if you are 40yrs old, you could be included in the term “youth”. In fact, doesn’t Jesus call us to be child-like? So, youth is a state of mind rather than a physical age.
All I am trying to remind us, is that everyone can learn from this verse! Not just those below the age of twenty-five.
Bearing this in mind, in this powerful verse, Paul addresses and urges them to set an example in their speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity.
Let us have a look at these five aspects.
The Power of words: “Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech” (1 Timothy 4:12).Words have the power to build up or tear down, and as believers we have the opportunity to speak life, truth, and encouragement into the lives of others. Take a careful look at what words are coming out your mouth this week and let us be intentional to use our words for the glory of God.
Our conduct: “Let no one despise you for your youth but set the believers an example in conduct. ” (1 Timothy 4:12). Although words are powerful, Actions can speak louder than words, and as believers, we are called to live in a manner that aligns with our faith. Our conduct, no matter our age, should display integrity, demonstrate Christ-like character, and stand out from the crowd, not conforming to the ways of the world. It is how we respond to difficult situations and not react out of impulse. I challenge you to question if your actions align with that simple saying that we all know so well: WWJD(What Would Jesus Do?)
The Power of Love: “Let no one despise you for your youth but set the believers an example in love” (1 Timothy 4:12). The love of Christ is transformative and can be powerful in the lives of others. We need to demonstrate this love. This can be done through acts of kindness, compassion, and selflessness, thereby making a significant impact on your circles and communities. Let us remind ourselves of 1 Corinthians 13: 4-7 wherever it says the Word “Love” or refers to love by the word “it”. Replace it with your own name. Does this scripture remain true? Are you patient, kind, not envious, not proud, not self-seeking etc.? Let us challenge ourselves to love God more than anything else so that these statements become true as that love flows out into our lives.
The Role of Faith: “Let no one despise you for your youth but set the believers an example in faith” (1 Timothy 4:12). We need to display unwavering faith that inspires others to draw closer to God. The way we do this is by deepening our own relationship with God, and trusting in His plan, even in the face of challenges. Easier said than done, but I have been told that Faith is like a muscle, we need to exercise it for it to grow stronger.
Pursuing Purity: “Let no one despise you for your youth but set the believers an example in purity” (1 Timothy 4:12). In a world saturated with impurity and temptation, we need to uphold moral and spiritual purity as a testimony to our faith. This, I believe, is one of the most difficult things to do. It involves having accountability, guarding one’s heart, maintaining purity in relationships, and making choices that honour God. Our belief informs our behaviour, so make sure you know what the Bible says regarding purity and if this belief becomes rooted in your heart, I believe that will then flow out into the way we behave.
The first part of this scripture, “Let no one despise you for your youth…” is also a good reminder that in the kingdom of God, age is not a factor that God looks at when He calls someone. In fact, I’m always so shocked when reminded that the 12 people Jesus chose to begin His ministry with, His disciples, were all what we consider “Youth”.
So young adults, this is a reminder that your ministry and calling does not only start when you turn forty. In the same way older generations should be reminded that they are not to look down on fellow believers because they are young, but instead, just like Jesus, encourage and call them to more.
So, whether you are 14, 40 or 64, as we grow in our speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity, we become beacons of light and hope, inspiring others to follow Christ wholeheartedly. Let us encourage and empower each other to rise, confident in our identity in Christ, and equipped to make a lasting impact in the world around us.