Graduation season is here and serves as a reflection of what has happened and what is to come. High school seniors (and college students) are charting what life looks like in this next season. Some choose to stay close to home, while others embark on an adventure many miles away.

As parents, student ministry leaders, and those who invest in the next generation, we pray that what we have lived and taught has had a lasting impact.

I believe Paul has insightful encouragement for graduates (and all believers) in 1 Timothy 4. In developing his young apprentice, Timothy, he gave valuable advice for Godly living. A summary of Paul’s spiritual advice could be this: Listen to what a person says and watch how they live. To do this, one can remember, replicate, and remain for the glory of God.

Remember, God is good. (1 Timothy 4:1-5)

In these first five verses, we see “everything created by God is good” (v. 4a). Paul was teaching and equipping young Timothy in the face of impending apostasy (false teaching that goes directly against the teachings of Scripture). He affirmed Timothy of the following about the goodness of God:

  • Received with gratitude (v. 3b)
  • Sanified by the Word of God (vs. 3c, 5a)
  • Through Prayer (v. 5b)

It’s important that graduates remember God is good. He always has been and will always be—He is the picture and perfection of goodness. Life is sometimes challenging at best, and questions such as “Where is God in this?” will fill our minds. However, God’s goodness is not based on circumstances but on who He says He is, on the authority of His Word.

Replicate God’s goodness through Godly living. (1 Timothy 4:6-14)

Paul equipped Timothy with sound, biblical doctrine and reminded him this would inform how he lived for a watching world and led in the Church. In verse 12, Paul tells Timothy a couple of things: First, He reminds him age does not necessarily determine spiritual maturity (v. 12a – “Don’t let anyone despise your youth…”). Second, he gives a list of actions for all believers to follow. These include the following:

  • Speech: Build your life on sound doctrine.
    • (v. 6b – “Nourished by the words of faith and the good teaching;” v.11 – “Command and teach these things”)
  • Conduct: Belief always dictates actions.
    • (v.7b – “Train yourself in godliness;” v. 12b – “Set an example;” “v. 14a – “Don’t neglect the gift that is in you.”)
  • Love: The world will know you are His by your love.
    • (v. 10a – “Labor and strive”)
  • Faith: Our eternal and unwavering foundation is in Him.
    • (v. 10b – “Because we have put our hope in the living God, who is the Savior of all people, especially of those who believe.”)
  • Purity: Integrity is a worthy pursuit.
    • (v. 8a – “For the training of the body has limited benefit, but godliness is beneficial in every way”)

I have seen amazing leaders in this generation of believers. My advice to them: Lead well. Why? Because one’s speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity are all observed by their circle of influence and beyond. As a youth pastor friend says, “Lean into your calling and not your comfort.” Paul spent much time discussing and equipping Godly living because he knew the world would take notice. Stand tall, even if you stand alone.

Remain steadfast. (1 Timothy 4:15-16)

Paul concludes his instruction on the importance of steadfastness. Abiding in Christ is a marathon and not a sprint. Paul tells Timothy to do the following:

  • Pay close attention (v. 16a): Your progress can draw others closer to Christ.
  • Persevere (v. 16b): Your decisions affect more than just you.

Much like following a workout routine, there are difficult days; sometimes, we won’t want to do it. My encouragement for graduates is to keep going and not throw in the towel. According to Paul, “In doing this, you will save both yourself and your hearers” (v. 16c). Remember, replicate, and remain all for the glory of God.