100 Ways: 1 Timothy 4:12 Edition

If you've been reading this blog long, you probably know by now that 1 Timothy 4:12 is one of my favorite verses. It is a wake-up call for our generation, telling us that even though we are teenagers, that doesn't mean we should spend these years partying.

For today's edition of 100 Ways to Live for God, I want to focus on three aspects of that verse to add to our list.

The List:
Here's the list so far! We're almost 1/5 of the way done!

1. Read your Bible every day.
2. Put a reminder that teens can do great things, like 1 Timothy 4:12, on a sticky note and post it somewhere you see every day.
3. Whenever you get dressed in the morning, ask yourself if you would want to go out to lunch with Jesus in what you are wearing.
4. Memorize Scripture regularly.
5. Make prayer your automatic response to a difficult situation.
6. Commit or recommit your life to God and trust His perfect plan.
7. Commit your work to the Lord and imagine doing it for Him.
8. Speak out as a witness to others.
9. Focus on thankfulness and avoid complaining.
10. Be selfless; think of others before yourself.
11. Go to church and participate in church events.
12. Be productive and use your time wisely.
13. Be diligent, neat, and thorough with your work.
14. Be generous with your time.

15. Make sure your speech honors God.
In other words, don't curse (or use words close to cursing). Speak respectfully to those around you, especially adults. Make sure your words are kind and uplifting, and don't gossip or speak meanly about others behind their back.

Basically, treat others as you would want to be treated in the way you speak.

16. Show love to those around you.
With words and actions, show those around you that they matter. Don't discriminate between people for any reason; avoid thinking badly about specific people. Remember that everyone is made in the image of God, and treat them as such.

17. Work hard to strengthen your faith.
Stay close to God. Remember His truth when you are having a hard time; get close to Him through Bible reading and prayer. Faith is your lifeline during trials and in the secular environment of this world. Hold tight to God and don't ever let go.

What do you think? Will you use these tips to live out 1 Timothy 4:12 in your life? Do you have ideas for things that should go on the list?