11/12/2024
A Testimony of Leading Youths for Christ
The youth in the church have always been the most exciting and dynamic group, filled with energy and potential. Yet, they are also the most vulnerable, often becoming easy prey to the temptations and traps of Satan. As 1 Peter 5:8 warns, "Be sober-minded and alert. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour."
Through my journey as a minister, I have witnessed the stark contrast among youths. Some stood as shining examples of dedication, putting aside their personal priorities to serve God wholeheartedly. They carried a deep passion for winning souls, going to great lengths and using every method to lead people to Christ. These young men and women embodied Daniel 12:3: "Those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars forever and ever."
Yet, there were others whose hearts were cold and indifferent. They remained unmoved by the call of God, regardless of circumstances. Sadly, some of these were born and raised in spiritual families but became lukewarm, much like the church in Laodicea mentioned in Revelation 3:15-16: "I know your deeds, that you are neither cold nor hot. I wish you were one or the other! So, because you are lukewarm—neither hot nor cold—I am about to spit you out of my mouth."
Through the grace of God, I had the privilege of leading many youths, including those who were once lukewarm. Emmanuel International Church became a home where they encountered God and experienced transformation. It reminded me of Matthew 7:24-25: "Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock."
The life of Joseph serves as an inspiration for young people facing temptations. Despite being young, far from his family, and vulnerable, Joseph chose righteousness over sin. When tempted by Potiphar’s wife, he stood firm and declared, "How then could I do such a wicked thing and sin against God?" (Genesis 39:9). His unwavering faith and fear of God kept him pure, even when it cost him his freedom. Joseph’s story is a powerful reminder for today’s youth that resisting temptation is possible when one is committed to God. His life reflects James 4:7: "Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you."
But not all stories were triumphant. Some youths became instruments in the enemy's hands, causing division and harm to the church. They failed to understand that the church is the body of Christ (Colossians 1:18), with Christ as the head. Still, the true church, built on the foundation of Jesus, remains unshaken through every storm.
On the other hand, I have seen the joy of spiritual growth in many. Some youths, now established in their own families, are prospering wherever the Lord has planted them. They are bearing fruit, fulfilling the promise of Psalm 1:3: "That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers."
Not all encounters have been easy. There were those who used me and moved on, but I have remained steadfast, like a faithful soldier, believing in the eternal rewards promised by God. As 1 Corinthians 15:58 encourages, "Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain."
Despite the challenges, my faith is anchored in the assurance of greater things. "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him" (1 Corinthians 2:9). Serving the Lord faithfully is a privilege, and I trust that He will reward every labor done for His glory.
Joseph’s victory over temptation and God’s transformative power in the lives of the youths I have ministered to testify to the enduring faithfulness of our Lord. Let us continue to resist the devil, submit to God (James 4:7), and lead others to righteousness, knowing that our God is faithful to sustain His church and His servants.