We’ve come to the end of another school year, so this will be my last writing for a while. Susan and I appreciate your love and prayers. Those who encourage others often don’t realize how important this is in the Body of Christ.
The younger generation needs encouragement these days. Many, many struggle with a lack of foundation and purpose. This may seem odd since so many accolades and privileges are showered on young people, but despite the well-intended efforts to build self-esteem and confidence, the lies of the enemy are more frequently believed: “You’re not good enough…” “You’ve got to prove your worth…”
Drowned out are God’s truths: “You are loved with an everlasting love…” “I have created you for a purpose…” Young people need encouragers who not only echo what God says but live authentic lives showing His messages to be true. Words are important, but kids are impacted more by what they see than what they hear.
When Paul wrote to early believers: “Imitate me as I imitate Christ,” he was pointing to the One who is the true Source of encouragement. If our children don’t find their identity in Christ, they will be constantly ‘tossed to and fro’ by the waves of this world. ‘Building up’ that which lasts is a building up of faith in the One who ‘holds all things together.’
David once wrote: “The Lord will fulfill His purpose for me; Your steadfast love, O Lord, endures forever.” (Psalm 138:8) Faith means I know this to be true. No matter how bad I look or weak I get or lonely I feel, I can say with confidence: “It’s OK, Jesus is with me and He’ll never leave. He has a purpose for my life and He will work it all out. His love endures forever and by His grace I will trust and follow Him.”
Can young people adopt such a mindset? The answer is ‘Yes’, but only with Christ. In Christ we see the One who gave up everything, was despised and rejected, and yet, overcame. He overcame because He lived in His Father, and He encourages us to do the same.
Have a great summer!
“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” I Thessalonians 5:11
“Because I live, you also will live. On that day you will realize that I am in My Father, and you are in Me, and I am in you.” John 14:19-20
“I am the vine; you are the branches. Those who remain in Me, and I in them, will produce much fruit. For apart from Me you can do nothing.” John 15:5