Ministry - set the example

Paul gives Timothy some instructions about ministry.

But he also gives this interesting call to Timothy as a minister of the gospel:

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 ESV)

It makes sense right: lead by example. But for some reason I also struggle with this and it is a new and challenging idea to me in my ministry model. Timothy is called to teach and command certain things but also that a significant part of his ministry is simply to pursue godliness and train in at and by his life set an example. Suggesting that this is a crucial time and energy component of ministry. That it is not extra or on the side but central.

My mindset is a lot on productivity and urgency not using time to just set an example in this way. It seems counterintuitive to me. And yet that is often how God works and how the kingdom grows.

God help me to seek you, train in godliness and to set the example. Let the mark my ministry but first I need up to break my model and way of doing things and replace it with your direction and vision.

Amen