"You however, have observed my teaching, my conduct, my purpose, my faith, my patience, my love, my perseverance.." - 2 Tim 3:10 (NIV). 

Most trained teachers know that there are a variety of ways to impart knowledge. The most common used being instruction in form of a lesson. Some teachers may go on to offer exercises which is one way of both proving the lesson was captured and also improving understanding. Certain teachers ask for questions and in their answers do further dispel ignorance.

There is a common mistake though which tends to view classroom teachers as the only ones. Yet everyone with knowledge is a teacher or, ought to be, as to share to the less knowledgeable. Knowledge is useful because it helps the ignorant know better and avoid costly mistakes.

The Apostle Paul was a teacher even long before he came to Christ, teaching Jewish law as he understood and persecuting those who refused to accept his teachings (Acts 22:1-21). But once he came to Christ something changed in this seasoned teacher. He would not longer teach with mere words or with whips to those who ignored him but also would put up his life to demonstrate his convictions.

Hence, when it came to some parting words to his student, Timothy, he pointed him to the example he had set in his life, as the best instruction he could have offered. We can teach others the way of God with as many words but equally more powerful is the conduct of our lives, which can offer a great lesson without as many words.

Prayer for today: Lord Father God of Abraham, maker of heaven and earth, just as the Apostle Paul, help me that my life may be the best teacher for all to believe in your son Jesus Christ, in whose name I pray.