Living the Good News

I know we studied Timothy last week, but I had a really neat experience when I taught Sunday school today. I wanted to talk about all the examples in our lives that have shaped us and given us strength in the gospel. As I thought about each person in my class, I started to take note of the specific ways they are examples to me.

For example, there are the twins, who are always so kind and compassionate to others. They are always willing to help out, and they always put others before themselves. They are true examples of Christian charity.

And then there’s the brother who has such a deep understanding of the gospel. He can explain even the most complex concepts in a way that is easy to understand. He is a true scholar of the scriptures, and he is always willing to share his knowledge with others.

And there’s the one who has such a pure and simple faith. She trusts the Lord completely, even when things are tough. She is an inspiration to everyone who knows her.

And there’s the sister who has so much compassion for others. She is always the first to offer help to someone in need. She is a true example of Christian love.

And there’s the brother who would do anything the Lord asked of him. He is always willing to serve, and he never asks for anything in return. He is a true disciple of Jesus Christ.

And there’s the shy one who always stretches beyond her comfort zone to share her insights. She is a powerful reminder that we all have something to offer, no matter how quiet or reserved we may be.

And there are the ones in the back corners who are always there, faithfully attending church. They may not be the loudest or most outgoing, but they are just as important as everyone else. They are a constant source of strength and support.

And there’s the bishopric member who shows compassion and love with every word he speaks. He is a true shepherd of the people, and he always knows how to make someone feel better.

And there are the sisters who always nod their heads throughout my lesson, giving me the confidence to continue. They are a source of encouragement and support, and I am so grateful for them.

And there’s the brother who always shares profound insights whenever he talks. He challenges me to think deeper and see things in a new light. He is a true teacher of the gospel.

These are just a few of the many examples that I have seen in my life. I am so grateful for the people who have shaped me and given me strength in the gospel. They are a constant reminder that we are all on a journey together, and that we can all learn from each other.

In 1 Timothy 4:12, Paul writes, “Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, and in purity.”

Paul is encouraging Timothy to set a good example for others, even though he is young. But this verse applies to all of us, regardless of our age. We are all called to be examples of the believers, even when no one is watching.

In Matthew 5:16, the Savior taught, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.”

Our light is the light of Christ, and we are to let it shine so that others may see our good works and glorify God. We can do this by setting a good example in our words, our conduct, and our actions, even when no one is watching.

There are a few reasons why we should strive to set a good example, even when no one is watching:

• We never know who is watching. Even if we think we are alone, God is always watching. And He is pleased when we set a good example.
• We are representing Christ. As Christians, we are called to be ambassadors for Christ. This means that we represent Him in everything we do and say. When we live our lives in a way that is consistent with His teachings, we are pointing others to Him.
• We are setting a standard for others. The people around us are watching us, and our actions and words are influencing them. When we set a good example, we are encouraging others to follow Christ.

So, how can we be examples of Christ, even when no one is watching? Here are a few tips:

• Be kind and compassionate. Treat everyone with respect, even those who are difficult to love. Be willing to help others in need.
• Be honest and trustworthy. Keep your word and be truthful in your dealings with others.
• Be pure and holy. Strive to live a life that is free from sin and moral compromise.
• Be forgiving. When others hurt you, choose to forgive them. Forgiveness is not about condoning their actions, but about releasing the bitterness and resentment that can poison your heart.
• Be joyful. Even when things are tough, choose to have a positive attitude. Joy is a powerful witness to the world that God is good.

When we set a good example, we are not only honoring God and reaching others with the gospel, but we are also building up the body of Christ. So, let’s all strive to be good examples of the believers, even when no one is watching.

Even when no one is watching, God is always watching. He sees everything that we do and everything that we say. And He wants us to live our lives in a way that brings Him glory.

So, let’s make a commitment to be good examples of the believers, even when no one is watching. Let’s show the world what it means to be a follower of Jesus Christ.

Here are some specific examples of how we can set a good example, even when no one is watching:

• At work: Be honest and hardworking, even when no one is looking over your shoulder. Be kind and respectful to your coworkers, even when they are difficult. Be willing to help others, even if it means going the extra mile.
• At school: Be attentive in class and participate in discussions, even if you’re shy. Be honest on your tests and assignments. Be kind and helpful to your classmates.
• In your neighborhood: Greet your neighbors with a smile and a wave. Offer to help with yard work or other chores. Be a good listener and offer support when needed.
• Online: Be kind and respectful in your interactions with others, even when you disagree with them. Avoid posting anything that is offensive or harmful. Be a good steward of your time online and use it to build up others.

These are just a few examples of how we can set a good example, even when no one is watching. When we do these things, we are honoring God and representing Him well. We are also making a positive impact on the world around us.

I know that we are all busy people, and it can be difficult to always be thinking about setting a good example. But I encourage you to make a conscious effort to do so, even when no one is watching. It may not seem like a big deal, but your small acts of kindness and compassion can make a big difference in the world.

Remember, you are representing Christ to the world. When you live your life in a way that is consistent with His teachings, you are pointing others to Him. So, be kind, be honest, be pure, be forgiving, and be joyful. And always remember that God is watching.

Here is a challenge for you: This week, make a conscious effort to set a good example, even when no one is watching. Do one thing each day that is kind, compassionate, or helpful to others. It could be something as simple as holding the door open for someone, or letting someone go ahead of you in line. Or, it could be something more significant, such as offering to help a neighbor with a project, or volunteering your time to a worthy cause.

At the end of the week, reflect on how your actions made a difference in the lives of others. How did you feel when you were setting a good example? Did it make you feel closer to God? Did it inspire others to do the same?

I believe that when we all strive to be good examples, even when no one is watching, we can make the world a better place. So, let’s all commit to being the best examples of Christ that we can be.