I often see our young people more concerned about fitting in with friends at school or within the communities where they live. The pressure of keeping up with fashion and social media trends, looking pretty, building strong bodies and being popular amongst their friends seems to be the priorities of their day. I always wonder and ask myself “How are these short term wants maintainable”?
Our outward appearance constantly changes as we grow and develop from one physical stage to another.
As Christians the focus of life should not be on attaining a certain image or fitting in with societal peer pressure but must allow for the posture of standing out boldly with Christ by our side. Young men and women as we adopt this type of mind-set, it will help us to be wise and capable to withstand life’s ever-changing circumstances. When we stand out it produces character which aids in developing confidence, boosts our self-esteem and helps us to stay true to ourselves. Our Christian values and participation in fellowship with believers are some foundations for our spiritual growth.
The best example of those who chose to stand out are the twelves disciples. They were ordinary young people in their community following cultural norms before they were asked to become followers of the Lord Jesus Christ. They made their choice and understood what it meant to leave everything to follow Christ.
The Youth Department team would like to encourage all young people to be courageous and choose to stand boldly for Christ no matter where we are, at school, in the workplace, at home, in the community and in the church. Despite the effects of high unemployment rate, many social ills and various challenges we are faced with, we can still rise, put on the full armour of God and STAND! (Ephesians 6)
Standing firm speaks of our recommitment to God’s sovereign plan for our lives accepting that we are all uniquely created for His divine purpose.
We recommit to strengthen the body (the Church) and take up our rightful role in society, preaching the message of purity, integrity and faith. Young people be encouraged with Christ’s own words, “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden; nor does anyone light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house.” (Matthew 5:14-16)
Stand strong and shine bright for Christ in your conduct, speech, purity, faith and love (paraphrased 1 Timothy 4:12).