Let No Man Despise Thy Youth

1 Timothy 4:12 Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.

INTRODUCTORY THOUGHTS

Unfortunately, some Christians have become convinced that old age serves as a sufficient excuse for a lack of service to the Lord’s work. Granted, the field of one’s service may change, but there should always remain a willingness to serve. For instance, Moses received his initial call to deliver Israel at forty years old (Acts 7:23) but did not lead God’s people out of Egypt until he was eighty (Exodus 7:7). When he died at 120 years of age, he remarked that “his eye was not dim, nor his natural force abated” (Deuteronomy 34:7). At forty years of age, Caleb received a promise from Moses concerning the possession of land in Canaan (Joshua 14:7-9). Forty-five years later, Caleb took possession by driving out the mighty Anakims (Joshua 14:10-12). Caleb did something in his old age that many of the young men could not or would not attempt (Joshua 17:13).

DEVOTIONAL THOUGHTS

(For children):If you, as a child, want others to know you love the Lord, then you need to consistently act like you truly love Him. How should you behave at home, at church, in Sunday School, and in publick? Consider these verses for some guidance: Psalm 101:2a; 2 Thessalonians 3:7; Titus 2:7a.

(For everyone):Why do young people become frustrated when adults fail to respect them? Is it possible they think they are entitled to the respect of others regardless of their actions?

(For everyone):What are some ways you could keep others from despising your youth? What would you need to change in order to earn more respect from those around you?

PRAYER THOUGHTS

Ask the Lord to help you earn respect rather than expecting it.

Ask God to give you wisdom beyond your years.

SONG

In Days of Youth

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