I will strive to be a Godly example and leader to all
“Show yourself to them an example of good works in all matters. In teaching show uncorruptness, seriousness, soundness of speech beyond reproach, in order that the opponent is put to shame, having no evil word to say about you.”
This line has two main connotations: First is that we are called to be more than “good enough”, we want to strive and work diligently towards being exceptional disciples of God. Second, there are many others that want to live Godly lives, but they just don’t know how or where to start. In following God, we have an obligation to teach others to also be disciples of Christ.
In trying to do our best we are not working to “earn salvation” or earn the favor of God. We already are given God’s grace in that while we were yet sinners Jesus died for us as stated in John 3:16. Through His death, Jesus has already shown us His love and unmerited favor. It is because of the love that He showed us that we want to follow Him and His instructions. Learning His ways can take time, and occasionally don’t make sense at first, but we know that following Him is always worth every bit of effort.
Learn and Do the Basics First
The first step is to become a disciple of Christ; to accept the guidance of the Holy Spirit in your life and to learn by reading, listening, and doing research. As you learn more about God´s word and what He says we should be doing, do your best to do it. Mistakes might be made, but continue to ask God to guide you and He will provide guidance.
James 1:5, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.”
Grow and Be Exceptional
Work hard and continue trying, this step doesn’t happen overnight, every moment that you work to grow, is compounded over time.
1 Timothy 4:12, “Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity.”
1 Peter 2:12, “Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.”
James 1:2-4, “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.”
Teach and Disciple Others
If the things you are learning are helping you, pass them along and make more disciples. Simply remember the words of Jesus from Matthew 28:18-20, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”
Titus 2:7-8, “Show yourself to them an example of good works in all matters. In teaching show uncorruptness, seriousness, soundness of speech beyond reproach, in order that the opponent is put to shame, having no evil word to say about you.”
Mark 9:35, “And he sat down and called the twelve. And he said to them, “If anyone would be first, he must be last of all and servant of all.”
An important step here is to read and reread the gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. The gospels contain the story of Jesus and His words of instruction and guidance. Once you have read the gospels it is our hope that the resources below and throughout this site will help you continue to gain practical advice on how to grow, be an example, and have God work through you in more ways than you ever thought possible.
