1 Timothy 4:12 Let no one look down on your youthfulness, but rather in speech, conduct, love, faith and purity, show yourself an example of those who believe.
Yesterday our students led us in worship. It was an amazing declaration of God’s love. They reminded us of how God’s hope is seen from Genesis through Revelation.
It got me thinking… Do they know that they are a powerful witness for Jesus? Do they know how they affect, encourage, and challenge everyone in the body of Christ? I know that much of our leadership is over 25. We do that so that untested individuals aren’t given the burden of leadership before they are ready. Yet, when our young people lead through volunteering to serve or volunteering to be a part of worship they affect the lives of other Christians in profound ways.
If you are a young person, don’t chafe because your community of faith wants to protect you from the heavy burdens that come with leading. Instead, keep showing them your passion, humility, and willingness to shine for Jesus. When you love and shine with joy, you keep proving to yourself and to your family of faith that your desire to follow Jesus is not a passing thing, but it is a permanent part of your life.
If you are an older person, open up ways that your young people can serve and share the love of Jesus. You might encourage them to help in VBS. You might invite them to read scripture, give their testimony, and help leading the singing time of your worship service. The point is, encourage them to exercise their faith and rejoice when they respond.
Don’t let anyone think less of you just because you are young. Don’t let anyone think less of the young just because they are young. We are on this journey for Jesus together. So, let’s walk together!
Something to think about,
Pastor John
Pastor John D Jakes 
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