Under 40

Today’s reading: 1 Timothy 4:1-16

“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

Being young and unproven is not a disadvantage; it’s an opportunity.

The word used in this verse for “youth” can describe anyone up to the age of 40. So many young people (under 40) say, “I can’t wait till I’m older, and people take me more seriously.” In contrast, so many older people (over 40) say, “I wish I were younger. I need a do-over. I would use my energy differently (see verse 7).”

Donald Gutherie gives us some great insight on this verse:

“The first two, speech and life (i.e. manner of life, or behaviour) apply to Timothy’s public life, while the other three are concerned with inner qualities (love, faith and purity) which nevertheless have a public manifestation.”

Our public lives will always be driven by our private lives, and not the other way around.

Young or old, let’s change how we use our time and energy. God only gives us so much. Once we use it, we aren’t getting it back.