Following Jesus isn’t always easy, especially when young people face pressures and distractions in their daily lives. Jaylin, a Junior Soldier from Athlone Corps in the Western Cape Division, shares how his faith in Jesus and his commitment as a Junior Soldier help him stay strong and grow closer to God. Through his personal story, he encourages other children to make time for Jesus and live as faithful followers of Christ.
Being a Christian kid is not always easy, especially when you are surrounded by the wrong crowd. However, Jesus is always there, helping and guiding us every day. Jesus loves us no matter what we do, and He helps us become better people.
I am a Junior Soldier in The Salvation Army, and I try my best to follow Jesus by being kind, respectful, and helpful to others. When I became a Junior Soldier in 2023, I attended classes where we learned more about God. These classes encouraged us to read our Bibles more, pray, and become faithful followers of God as Christian children. We should all be more involved in learning about God.
When I became a Junior Soldier, I made a promise that says:
“I know that Jesus is my Saviour from sin. I have asked Him to forgive my sins, and I will trust Him to keep me good. By His help, I will be His loving and obedient child and will help others to follow Him. I promise to pray, to read my Bible, and, by His help, to lead a life that is clean in thought, word, and deed. I will not use anything that may injure my body or my mind, including harmful drugs, alcohol, and tobacco.”
As Junior Soldiers, we should read our Bibles and pray every day. Sometimes we may say that we do not have enough time to do this, but we should make time in our day for Jesus. In Luke 10:39–42, Mary sat listening to Jesus, while Martha was busy with other things. Jesus told Martha that spending time with Him was the better choice.
As God’s children, we should be faithful and live in a way that makes Jesus proud. Jesus helps me during times when I feel weak. Being a Junior Soldier means serving God and being a good example to others. Therefore, I encourage you to follow Jesus because it is never too late to give your life to Him. Romans 10:13 says: “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” This verse reminds us that God welcomes everyone who comes to Him in faith.
Thank you, Jaylin, for sharing your heart with us. Your love for Jesus and your commitment to living as a Junior Soldier are an encouragement to everyone who reads your story. We pray that God will continue to guide and strengthen you as you grow in faith and serve Him.