15/04/2026
*LET NO MAN DESPISE YOUR YOUTH; But don’t be the reason your youth is despised!
*
The charge in 1 Timothy 4:12 is often embraced by young people, but it carries responsibility on both sides.
There are two perspectives to consider:
the one being despised, and the one doing the despising.
Why are youths sometimes despised?
At times, it is unfair. Some people dismiss young people simply because of age, assuming immaturity, lack of wisdom, or inexperience. This kind of judgment is rooted in bias, not truth. When a young person is walking in integrity, demonstrating godly character, and living responsibly, they should be acknowledged and respected, not overlooked.
But there is another side we cannot ignore.
Why shouldn’t youths be despised?
Because Scripture places a standard on them. The same verse does not stop at “let no one despise you”; it continues with a command: ~be an example. ~That means your life must give people a reason to take you seriously.
So the real question becomes:
How are Christian youths presenting themselves?
Are they above reproach in:
• speech
• conduct
• love
• faith
• purity
These are not small matters, they shape perception.
To despise means to look down on, to devalue, or to dismiss. Sadly, sometimes young people experience this unjustly. But other times, their own behavior invites it, through carelessness, lack of discipline, or inconsistency.
If you want your voice to carry weight, your life must carry substance.
*To those who despise the youth:*
Correct with grace. Lead with patience. Speak truth, but do so in a way that reflects Christ; never with condemnation or condescension.
*To the youth:*
You are not exempt from responsibility because of your age.
If you want to be heard, then live in a way that commands attention, not by force, but by example.
Speak wisely.
Carry yourself with dignity.
Live responsibly.
Because respect is not demanded; it is demonstrated. And having self respect is where it starts!🙏🏽
