While in my teens I knew that the work the church was to perform was important. I
wanted more people to learn of Jesus and become faithful, mature members. I wanted the
church to thrive in every essential way. However, I mistakenly thought that
accomplishing this was the work of the “grown” men and women in the church. I did not
consider myself either able or needed to work for Christ. Then, in one flash of clarity, I
realized that if I understood enough to become a Christian, as I had at the age of 12, then
I could and needed to be active in the Lord’s work. Suddenly I began to think of
opportunities I had missed to do good in the name of Christ because I did not conceive of
myself as a servant. Perhaps you have not thought of yourself as a capable servant either!
There are numerous examples in the Old testament of young persons following God
and having an impact upon their environments. We might read the familiar stores of
Joseph, Samuel, David, Josiah, and others, but there are also examples in the New
Testament. We are shown the Christ, at age 12, spending time in the temple in religious
discussion with the Jewish leaders [Luke 2:41-52]. We see Timothy, apparently as a
young man, already having a reputation as a godly person, going on a missionary journey
with Paul [Acts 16:1ff]. Philip the evangelist had four young daughters who were
Christians with the gift of prophecy [Acts 21:8. 9]. Each of these young persons, and
more examples might be cited, had already begun to have an impact for good at young
ages.
No matter your age, you have the ability to perform good works, knowing that God has
a plan for us to accomplish [Ephesians 2:10]. You might be able to visit members who
are ill or unable to meet with the brethren. You might be able to help with some of the
responsibilities around the church’s facilities. You have the power and duty to give,
regardless of how much or little you earn; this is your sacrifice in worship. You can learn
how to speak with your friends or acquaintances about the Gospel; the brethren where
you worship will gladly help you prepare for this important task. You might simply
approach the elders or minister and ask what you can do to help with the work of the
church. Your age is not the important issue; your willingness to be useful is.
There is certainly one area which we dare not neglect to mention in your service to
God. Even at an early age you can make and maintain the decision to live a pure and holy
life. Too many times persons have entered their late twenties and thirties wishing they
had not behaved in some immoral fashion while in high school or their early twenties.
Solomon’s encouraging words, “Remember now your Creator in the days of your youth,”
means simply that – live in a way that shows you belong to God. If you are a Christian,
then you are His new creation [Ephesians 4:20-24]. Living a godly life is not just for our
parents or grandparents. We are called by the Lord to imitate Christ even at the earliest
age.
Do not spend later years wishing that you had lived for God now, in the days of your
youth. Make decisions of which God would approve and stick to them. Be assertive in
learning how you can make a difference right now in serving the cause of Christ and
promoting good.
