It is essential that young people be given every opportunity to participate in and to thrive in God’s work!

Adults have always been inclined to regard young people with a mixture of disapproval and mistrust. It seems that this has always been so. However, in the Body of Christ, it should be different. In the Church, it has happened that instead of stifling young peoples’ aspirations of changing the world (and the church!), adults have rather encouraged their idealism, have focussed their enthusiasm, and surrounded them with wise advice while recognising their potential. We should all do this. Are we so fixed in our own ways that we cannot bear it when young people disturb our tranquillity? We must take care that we are not found guilty of hindering the Spirit Who wants to make use of them.

In fact, in the history of the Church, God has frequently made young people His instruments to lead revivals – and too often older folk have wanted to hold them back. If we are tempted to see only the negative – their lack of maturity, their unrealistic idealism, their superficial understanding of essential doctrine – let us remember that they will gain maturity!

Adults, when did you last encourage a young person in your church? When did you express your appreciation? Or, on the contrary, when did you last complain about one of them? Young people, the Church needs you! Don’t be afraid to launch out. Seek first of all God’s approval, keep a humble spirit, be ready to accept correction, dare to serve! Be ‘an example for believers’ so that ‘no-one can despise your youth’ (1 Timothy 4 v.12). Keep your heart filled with love for God and for others because, without love, nothing you do will be of value anyway (1 Corinthians 13 v1-3).

God is calling the new generation; doesn’t Scripture tell us that the twelve apostles were young people?

Clive Every-Clayton