Have you ever felt like an imposter, as if everyone else has it all figured out, but you’re just seconds away from being exposed? Perhaps a deep calling stirs within your heart, a conviction that God is leading you to step into something significant – a life dedicated to setting a godly example. Yet crippling fear and voices of doubt whisper, “Who do you think you are?” I know these feelings well. They can make us question our readiness, our worth, and even our purpose. But in moments of such deep uncertainty, I often turn to a powerful truth from Scripture:

This verse, penned by the Apostle Paul to his young apprentice Timothy, serves as a timeless anchor. Timothy was stepping into a daunting role as a pastor, feeling inexperienced and perhaps overwhelmed. Yet, Paul’s words offer profound encouragement: your background or perceived limitations don’t disqualify you. Instead, you are called to be an example, to live in a way that points others to Christ. This is the essence of setting a Godly example.

The Weight of Inexperience: Why God Still Calls You

It’s easy to believe that our personal history, our past mistakes, or our feelings of inadequacy somehow disqualify us from God’s purposes. Growing up, I sometimes felt like I was battling a virus, where condemnation was ingrained in my very being, making me believe I wasn’t enough. When faced with God’s call to action, my own inner voices, which sometimes sound like past criticisms, can make me doubt my suitability for the task at hand. We might think we need an impressive resume or a flawless track record to be used by God, but the truth is wonderfully different.

God’s calling for you today, whatever it may be, is specific and intentional. It’s not about your achievements or how good you appear to others. He wants to use your unique passion, your drive, your vision, and even your raw, unfiltered experiences to magnify His glory. My own journey has taught me that my perspective is valuable, precisely because it is uniquely mine. Even through my struggles with trauma and past behaviors, God rebuilds me from the ground up through this journey of healing and transformation, giving me a new foundation and a new purpose. This is all part of setting a Godly example.

More Than Just Words: Setting a Godly Example in Speech and Conduct

Paul emphasizes that we are to set an example in our speech and conduct. This goes beyond mere words; it requires us to live out our faith authentically, allowing God’s love to flow through us. In my own life, I’ve learned that true love does not manipulate or control; it’s about being genuine and offering value. This means actively aligning my thoughts and actions with God’s will, even when it feels difficult.

When I choose to surrender my desires and consciously fill my heart with God’s Word and His Spirit, my words and actions naturally begin to reflect His nature. This isn’t a performance but an overflow of what God is doing within me. It means embracing a posture of giving and serving, allowing my life to be a blessing to others, demonstrating God’s love and grace. Each word spoken, each action taken, becomes an opportunity for setting a Godly example.

Love in Action: The Heart of a Godly Example

The call to set an example in love extends to both our relationship with God and with others. This means allowing God’s grace and mercy to transform us, especially in areas where we once experienced judgment or condemnation. It’s a continuous process of allowing God to speak into areas where we have the wrong attitudes or ideas, helping us to accept His truth and cultivate humility.

For me, this means consistently asking God to soften my heart and to provide the strength and courage to show up in a positive, encouraging way, even when faced with difficulties. It’s about being present and genuinely serving those around me, whether they are family, friends, or community members. Overflowing with God’s love, we share that experience with everyone, even those seen as “enemies.” This outpouring of selfless love is central to setting a Godly example.

Faith and Purity: Living a Godly Example When No One is Watching

Perhaps the most challenging aspect of being an example is living out our faith and purity when no one else is looking. This is where true reliance on God is tested. I’ve battled with sexual impurity and other temptations, recognizing that these struggles can creep in and cause me to investigate things I don’t truly want to explore. In these moments, it’s easy to feel far from God, isolated by shame.

However, God’s message to me, echoed in Revelation, has been clear: there’s no need to delve into the “secrets of darkness” to find healing. Instead, the path forward is to focus on the good, the praiseworthy things, and to continually allow God to guide me. This means consciously turning away from what hinders me and trusting God to do the work. It’s about accepting that I am needy and clingy, and God is the only one who can truly satisfy that need. This surrender to God’s sufficiency, even in our secret struggles, is vital for setting a Godly example.

Empowered by the Spirit: Your Journey of Setting a Godly Example

The journey of setting a Godly example is not one we undertake in our own strength. It is only possible through the indwelling power of the Holy Spirit. He refines us, makes us new creations, and empowers us to live a life that glorifies God. As I continually surrender my thoughts, actions, and desires to God, allowing Him to mold me like clay, I experience His transformative power.

This means learning to let go of control and embracing vulnerability. Trusting that God will work through our experiences to heal not only ourselves but also others. Even when the path ahead seems unclear. Choosing to rely on God’s discernment and wisdom, and acting in faith, is the key. God consistently reminds me that He is with me, guiding my steps and providing the peace that surpasses all understanding. His transformation is real, and His plans are good.

Embrace the Call: Your Next Step in Setting a Godly Example

Are you ready to truly live out the example God has called you to be? It starts with an open heart, a willingness to be vulnerable, and a deep trust in His unfailing love. Setting a Godly example isn’t about perfection; it’s about consistently turning to God, allowing His Spirit to transform you from the inside out.

If you’re looking to dive deeper into this process. You might find encouragement in my reflections on How to Transform Your Struggle into Strength. Or perhaps you’re seeking clarity on His path for you. In which case exploring How to Seek God’s Purpose for Your Life Beyond Skills could offer valuable insights. This journey also involves actively stepping into His will. Learning how to take concrete steps of faith. Which is a theme I delve into in Taking the Next Step: How to Embracing God’s Calling. God consistently reminds me that He is with me, guiding my steps and providing the peace that surpasses all understanding. His transformation is real, and His plans are good.

Reflection Question. What is one area of your life where you feel God is calling you to set a more intentional example? How can you invite His Spirit to empower you in that area today?

References

• YouVersion’s Daily Verse 1 Timothy 4:12