December 6, 2022 - 1 Timothy 4:12b, 15-16

“…set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity. Be diligent in these matters; give yourself wholly to them, so that everyone may see your progress. Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers.” 1 Timothy 4:12b, 15-16 NIV

Lord, please help us constantly remember how important our witness is to the people around us. As Christians, we represent you to the world. It is a privilege and an honor to be called your representative. You are the all-powerful, all-knowing, all-loving, and completely just and holy God. The whole world deserves to see you for who you really are. It is possible that we might be the only version of you some people will ever see here on earth. The way they view you and Christianity could be based on how we live our lives. Our beliefs and actions could be a part of what determines the fate of their soul. We realize that the Holy Spirit brings people to salvation, but we never want our failures and shortcomings to be the reason someone doesn’t come to know you or turns away from you. People will see our mistakes, but they also need to see us respond in your kingdom ways. Help us to be quick to humbly apologize and do our best to both make right what we can, as well as change our behavior in the future. The people close to us should be able to see our growth as we work to fully follow you and your ways.

Jesus, help us learn to persevere in the transformation of our lives to reflect your ways into the world. We want our speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity to look like you. We want to be diligent in seeing change in our lives so we can both honor you and be the best witness we can be for you. We want our lives to draw people closer to you and inspire them forward in their walks with you.

In Jesus name, amen.