Paul writes Timothy and tells him to not let those around him despise his youth. The word "despise" means to disesteem or to hold in low regard. Looking down on or having a low view of young people is nothing new. A couple hundred years ago, William Shakespeare said "I would there were no age between ten and three-and-twenty, or that youth would sleep out the rest..." Sadly, that is some people's view of youth. But Paul demands more of Timothy. He compels him not just to make sure people don't look down on his youthfulness, but be an example of the believer. The word "example" is defined as a pattern or model, as of something to be imitated. Paul challenged Timothy to be a model of believers for others to observe. In a culture where teenagers have little or no responsibility for their conduct, a young person who has believed on Christ is called to a great responsibility, and that is to model true Christianity. The great thing about this is the Word of God shows us exactly how we are to do it. For the next few weeks we will be examining six areas we are to exemplify a believer. As we look at these things I hope that you will accept the challenge to live above the culture and model Christianity.