“Command and teach these things. Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity.” 1 Timothy 4:11-12, NIV
Social media has proven that having a public platform is currently very popular for the vast majority of people. Sites, such as Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram, keep even those in the most remote places, in touch. Sometimes the exposure is invasive and undesired. For many, however, being front and center in the public arena is not only desirable but sought. Addiction is not an overstatement when expressing how some view the importance of staying connected. It would also appear that brazenness has replaced good manners and speaking out loud every thought has replaced good judgment, respect, and civility.
In his writing to Timothy, Paul, first of all, instructs his young protégé on being courageous when speaking to and teaching other Christians regardless of age, either theirs or his. Then, like the social media of his day, Paul lists the various opportunities where Timothy can make an impact on those around him. He says, “set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith, and in purity.”
Have you given thought to the fact that you are setting an example for those around you? You may not participate in the current media choices, but you still have a platform. Unless you are a hermit, wherever you go, and whatever you do, others are watching and listening. Do not confuse brazenness with courage; the first is to be careless while the second is to be bold when speaking truth. As a wise person once told me, “don’t do or say anything you would regret reading on the front page of the morning newspaper.” Let’s take it a step further. Say and do nothing except what is pleasing and edifying as though God is present, because He is!
Sherry Sharp