“In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us” (Titus 2:7-8).

I remember how long it took me to learn to tie my shoes. My sister, Rose, sat down and carefully (and repeatedly) showed me how to do it. Without her example I would be only wearing loafers, flip flops or walking barefoot. We learn by example.

Timothy was young and Paul advised him that the way to overcome the limitation of his youth was by doing what is good. Teaching is not just talking; it is showing how it’s done. Paul wrote the Corinthian Christians and said, “Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ” (1 Corinthians 11:1). Just as Christ is our example we’re to provide an example for others to follow.

There are those who examine our lives to find an excuse for them to resist believing in Jesus. We do a great service for the Kingdom of God when we don’t give them anything bad to say about us. One reason we believers so readily follow Jesus is because He showed us how to live. “To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps. ‘He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in his mouth’ ” (1 Peter 2:21-22).

Of course, following the example of Jesus is impossible unless we are changed. The good news is that Jesus not only showed us how to live but He empowers us to live that way. Trusting Him and receiving His power is the only way we can live the life that pleases God. Our hope is that those who follow us will find their way to Jesus. He showed all of us what a life surrendered to God looks like.