You, however, have followed my teaching, my conduct, my aim in life, my faith, my patience, my love, my steadfastness, my persecutions and sufferings that happened to me at Antioch, at Iconium, and at Lystra—which persecutions I endured; yet from them all the Lord rescued me.

2 Timothy 3:10-11

Earlier this week I was part of a discussion on leadership. I’ve worked with a number of different leaders over the years, but I think Paul’s description of his own life is one of the best descriptions of what it means to lead by example.

Timothy and others who read Paul’s letters could follow Paul’s teaching with great confidence because of his consistent example. Paul encouraged Timothy to follow the way he lived his life, his goal for living, and the evidence of the fruit of the Holy Spirit in his life as noted by his faith, patience, love, and faithfulness even when he suffered persecutions.

Paul did it. He encouraged Timothy and us to do the same.