Day 23 — An Example

“In everything, show yourself to be an example by doing good works.”

— Titus 2:7 (BSB)

Have you ever noticed a little kid copying an older kid? Maybe your younger brother wants to wear the same clothes as you, or your little cousin tries to talk just like you, or a younger kid at church follows you around and does everything you do.

That’s because younger kids are always watching. And they learn more from what they see than from what they’re told.

Paul wrote a letter to a young pastor named Titus. And he told him: “In everything, show yourself to be an example by doing good works.” Not just in some things. In everything.

Whether you realize it or not, you’re already an example to someone. The question isn’t whether you’re an example. It’s what kind of example you are.

Think about the younger kids in your life. What are they learning from watching you?

• When you get frustrated, do they see you yell, or take a breath?
• When you lose a game, do they see you pout, or congratulate the winner?
• When your parents ask you to do something, do they see you argue, or obey?
• When someone is left out, do they see you ignore them, or include them?
• When you make a mistake, do they see you blame others, or say sorry?

That might feel like a lot of pressure! But here’s the good news: you don’t have to be perfect to be a good example. In fact, one of the best things you can show younger kids is what to do when you mess up. When you admit you were wrong, say sorry and try again, you’re teaching them something really important.

And remember: the best example of all is Jesus. The more you follow Him, the more your life will point others to Him. Paul once wrote, “You are to imitate me, just as I imitate Christ” (1 Corinthians 11:1). That’s the goal: to follow Jesus so closely that when others follow you, they end up following Him.

Think about it: Who is watching your example right now? What are they learning from you?

Try this: Choose one good habit you want the younger kids in your life to copy. Practice it on purpose today when they’re around.

Dear God, help me remember that people are watching my example, especially younger kids. Help me show them what it looks like to follow You. When I mess up, help me show them how to say sorry and try again. In Jesus’ name, Amen.