Examples

One of the greatest needs for all people, especially for young people, is to have someone to model our lives after.  We need people who will speak into our lives and teach us the ways of the Lord.

To older, experienced people, it is a call to take someone under their wing.  To the younger ones it is a call to not reject the wisdom of our elders.  The psalmist declares,

O God, You have taught me from my youth; and to this day I declare Your wondrous works. Now also when I am old and grayheaded, O God, do not forsake me, Until I declare Your strength to this generation, Your power to everyone who is to come. (Psalm 71:17–18)

Throughout the bible God has given us examples of what to do, and what not to do.  In 1 Corinthians 10 Paul uses the first generation of Israelites during the Exodus as an example what God does not want us to do.  They had allowed sin to enter their lives that displeased Him, and as a result heir hearts became hardened and God allowed them to die in the wilderness having never entered into the Promised Land.

Ever heard someone say, “Do what I say, not what I do”?  It’s a stupid thing to say, but it’s actually an incredibly accurate statement.  All of us are some type of example to someone by both what we do and say. 

God did not create you to be alone. He deposited skills, knowledge, and talents in someone out there who is sent to be an example to you, teach you and encourage you, and then in turn you become able to do it for someone else.