"Preach the
word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct,
rebuke and encourage—with
great patience and careful instruction."
2
Timothy 4:2 NIV
I have long loved this verse. It's kind of the mantra for many people who work in the ministry...be
instant in season and out. In other words, be ready at the drop of a hat
to preach the word. And if you've been in the ministry for any length of
time, you've been called upon at the last possible moment to bring the word.
Well, last night was just
that. At 2:30 p.m our youth leader texted to tell me that he had no voice
and was still coughing up a storm and would not be able to be at church {EEK!!}. Not a huge deal except that I have
also been sick and hadn't even decided if I felt well enough to go to church
myself.
This is where the 'instant in
season and out' part comes in to play. We have a couple of young ladies
in our youth group that are so eager to see the word of God go forth. I
asked one of them (my granddaughter) if she had anything on her mind that she
could share. Without even the slightest hesitation she replied yes, she
could do something. And she did! By the time church time rolled
around she had done a powerpoint presentation and had 3 pages of text to share!
This isn't the first time
this has happened. Just a few weeks ago, again at the last minute, we
needed a fill-in for our youth leader. I contacted the other young lady I
mentioned above. That night she shared on one single word...enough.
I am so impressed with these
two girls. I love seeing the youth get up in front of their peers and
share the word of God as He gives them a message! So often we overlook
the teens thinking they have nothing of value to say. That is so far from
the truth. God speaks to each of us in His own way...from the cradle to
the coffin...God will give you a message to share. It may not be from behind
a pulpit on the stage of church, but it will be a timely message for the
audience you have.
"Don’t
let anyone look down on you because you are young,
but set an example for the believers in speech,
in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity."
but set an example for the believers in speech,
in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity."
Children [of all ages] are important to God. I encourage you
to listen to the message God gives the children in your life. It could be
specifically for you!
Have a blessed day!
Such a good reminder about youth and about God's provision to share his word! I was part of the music ministry in the church of my youth. Having that position of service made me eager to attend worship. I had ownership and wasn't just a passive bystander. Giving our youth important work helps grow their faith and keep them faithful. Your words are so appropriate!
ReplyDeleteI agree. I like to see young people step up. It shows great character.
ReplyDeleteI agree. I like to see young people step up. It shows great character.
ReplyDelete