Tag: Young

Man Up!

Various Bible Passages

“Brethren, be not children in understanding: howbeit in malice be ye children, but in understanding be men.” – 1 Corinthians 14:20

“Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong.” – 1 Corinthians 16:13

“Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.” – Psalm 1:1

“In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity,” – Titus 2:7

“When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child: but when I became a man, I put away childish things.” – 1 Corinthians 13:11

“Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.” – Joshua 1:9

“Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word.” – Psalm 119:9

“The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and he delighteth in his way. Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the Lord upholdeth him with his hand. I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread. He is ever merciful, and lendeth; and his seed is blessed.” – Psalm 37:23-26

Wise Counsel

2 Timothy 4:9-18

Times have changed from the days of old, to now, when the young would glean wisdom and wise counsel from the elderly. It always amazes me, how a child can claim to know more than anyone who’s lived more than twice the years they’ve been alive. But, I digress, and allow all to get enough bumps and bruises necessary to force them to seek after wisdom. Wisdom is a coveted virtue, for anyone seeking a productive and blessed future. Unfortunately, the years of knowledge and counsel the younger generations need to be successful (in God’s eyes), are shunned away for the cares of the present world.

The apostle Paul proved to be one of the most influential of all godly men mentioned in Scripture. He was not only motivated by his humiliating and regretful past, but his drive to spread the goodness of the Gospel was fueled by the sincere love shown to him by Christ Himself. Paul’s 180 degree turn from darkness to light, was a miraculous event, but he would soon learn that the journey set before him would not be as smooth as he would hope. The apostle Paul was bold, and sure of that which he preached, and he never allowed any situation or circumstance to deter him from his mission. He was inspired by the Spirit of God in all he set his mind to do, even when establishing churches. God guided Paul’s hand, and gave him strength and wisdom on how to teach those who sought after righteousness.

Along his journey, Paul’s message wasn’t well received by everyone, especially those whom he assumed would offer their support. Demas, once a minister and fellow laborer with Paul, had surprisingly forsaken him. Paul mentioned that Demas “having loved this present world, departed unto Thessalonica.” (vs. 10). It’s easy to get over losing people who were never there for you, but being forsaken by someone who fought beside you, leaves a sting that is not easily relieved.

There were many others who stood against Paul during his ministry of preaching the Gospel, but God sustained him long enough to fulfill the will He set before him. Many of the valuable lessons Paul learned throughout his life, he made sure to pass them along to young Timothy. Paul knew, just as he faced ridicule and rejection from men of the “cloth”, Timothy should always be prepared for similar experiences.

Living a godly life will present the church with challenges and struggles, but it’s unfortunate when those struggles come by way of those who are supposed to be fighting alongside us. The Bible teaches that we are to pray for our enemies, but we should routinely set aside time to also pray earnestly and fervently for those who claim to be children of God.

“Despite how young or old you are, seek after wisdom, and allow the Spirit of God to give you understanding.” – Ell