Our attitudes, words, and behavior become a spiritual map for those watching our example and following our lead. And no matter how old we are, or how long we’ve been a believer, someone is watching and someone is following. Someone is looking to us as a model of faith — of love and joy and peace, of patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness, and self-control — of what it means to know, enjoy, and follow Jesus. The way we live, down to the smallest details, teaches people how to walk by the Spirit, or it shows them it’s ok to try to make it on our own without thought of glorifying God.

“In everything set them an example by doing what is good…” Titus 2:7

“Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.”

1 Timothy 4:12

“For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) and find out what pleases the Lord. Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.”

Ephesians 5:8-11

“Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.”

Philippians 4:9

“Whoever claims to live in him must live as Jesus did.”

1 John 2:6