Youth

<<adolescence, teenager>>

This transition period of life is often characterized by enthusiasm and energy, however it needs to be tempered with thinking through the implications of actions as, unfortunately, it is also when many lack correct judgement, rebell against the restraints and challenge the boundaries they have been subject to. They generally lack foresight, considering

The choices made determine the outcome

themselves invincible and do not think about possible dangerous consequences. Young people often give in to the pressures of the world and the rising hormones of puberty within as they increasingly come out from under their parent’s covering or authority and become independent in their own right 'charting their own course through life' (Ps 25:7; Prov 7:7). Adolescence is a period when young people need wise loving guidance as they encounter many new experiences and options, yet no one will ever regret going God's way.

Develop a firm foundation in your children from their earliest days – “Remember your creator in the days of your youth” – so they will know the truth of God’s ways and hopefully make wise choices to flee the evil desires of youth, so they will not have to live with regrets and the consequences of rebellion (Eccl 12:1; 2 Tim 2:22). The 'pleasure' of sin lasts for a moment but it's repercussions last a long time. Unfortunately, many emerging adults have not developed a robust genuine faith of their own in the earlier, formative years and so fall away instead of continuing in a lifetime pursuit of righteousness. Instruction and training in all matters pertaining to life and godliness should be given from an early age as was the case with Timothy (2 Tim 3:14,15). In the OT instruction was given how to creatively teach and reinforce these sound values (Deut 6:5-9). God only has children, not grand children so it is essential for each person to have their own heart to heart connection to God.

Regardless of our age, we should always be accountable to others, under authority and accept input from those who are wiser and more mature than us. If you are an adolescent find good role models or examples and even ask them to guide or mentor you, allowing

Pray for the youth in your ‘world’

them to lovingly speak into your life and hold you accountable to Godly disciplines. Older believers should develop good relationships with, and walk with those teenagers who are coming to terms with growing up. This input can be by sharing insights gained, lessons learned and encouragement in the Christian pathway, giving them a head start as everyone doesn’t have to learn the hard way (Tit 2:1-12; 1 Pet 5:5). Develop wholesome friendships as these are powerful influencers along the path of life. Peer pressure and temptation from all angles are relentless. We should all be continually growing in our understanding and knowledge as well as training others by sharing what we have learnt – the emphasis should be practical Christianity, what helps people to grow in righteousness and relationship with God, besides beneficial life issues, not theories or purposeless chatter (Tit 3:9; 2 Tim 2:14,16,23).

Paul instructed Timothy, “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young but set an example for the believers in every aspect of life” (1 Tim 4:12). Determine to be one who has overcome the wicked one because you are living by the Word of God (Ps 119:9; 1 Jn 2:13,14). Although even youths grow tired and weary, those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength (Ps 103:5; Isa 40:29-31). Daniel, David and Joseph are just a few of the youth dedicated to His purposes that God used.

Parents should be modelling Christian principles so the children don’t view them as hypocrites – saying one thing but doing the opposite. Tolerance and the lines of loving communication need to be maintained throughout.