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 4:12-15 NIV
In the time of Paul, there were many believers who only outwardly practised their faith - Jesus also declared the Pharisees of having the same problem - they were 'white washed tombs'.
They bragged about God's law but did not keep it. They taught others but did not teach themselves.
Many times as Christians, we too can have this image. Being outwardly Christian, but inwardly unchanged.
Therefore in these words, Paul is exhorting Timothy to set a better example in his faith. Even though he may be younger than other believers, Paul expected him to set the right example.
This can come as a challenge to us. Perhaps there are times we feel young, and insufficient, but Paul is exhorting us to have greater faith. To give ourselves wholly.
Paul never lost this desire to live diligently - he never lost this determination to do greater things.
We too should give ourselves wholly to this.
Many times we forget and grow weary, but Paul is giving us strength to be renewed in faith once again.
To lose this human nature that lets old habits return. To seek a more beautiful life of repentance.
Let us be the ones who can also live diligently and through persevering save both ourselves and the one's we cherish.Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourselves and your hearers
1 Timothy 4:16 NIV
