Be exemplary (3)

Exemplary living also extends into conduct. The believer must be given to proper conduct. Be courteous and warm towards others. In the way you greet others, for example, cultural biases can apply, and you should honour that. Greeting others well is a display of proper conduct, courtesy, and respect. This transcends into how you greet and address your leaders and fellow believers in the local church.

In addressing those older than you, entreat. There is a way to speak to those older than you are; speak to them in such a way that they will be willing to hear you out.

1 Timothy 5:1-2 (NIV) instructs us: “Do not rebuke an older man harshly, but exhort him as if he were your father. Treat younger men as brothers, older women as mothers, and younger women as sisters, with absolute purity.”

Again, when addressing those older than you, approach them with humility and gentleness. To entreat them is to engage in conversations and discussions with a spirit of respect and a desire to learn from their wisdom. Avoid a tone that comes across as confrontational or disrespectful. You don’t show off knowledge in front of an elder. Jesus never dishonoured his parents, you shouldn’t either.

For those who are peers with you, advise. Respectively address them when doing this. Offer your advice with care, concern, and consideration. Treat them with the respect they deserve.

To those younger than you, you can correct and rebuke. The correction doesn’t have to cross the boundaries of honour. That they are younger does not mean they do not deserve to be treated with dignity. Your correction should be firm, but not disrespectful or condescending. Correct with love and a genuine desire to guide them in the right direction.

For married believers, exemplary conduct extends to your spouse. The Bible instructs us to show respect and love in our relationships. Ephesians 5:33 (NIV) emphasizes: “However, each one of you also must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband.”

Let your marriage, be an example of the love and honour Christ has for His Church. Practice mutual respect, love, and commitment.

In all your interactions, whether with elders, peers or younger ones, let love, kindness, and humility guide your conduct. Be an example of how believers should speak, live give, honour and love. Avoid rabid and unedifying talks, treat others with humility. Don’t be a stumbling block to the ministry of Christ in your hands. 

Daily Bible Reading Plan:
Bible Reading – Revelation 17-18

TEACHING OF THE DAY
Things to remember in my service to the Lord