Young at Heart
“Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity. ”
Every time that I read this verse I get a feeling of urgency as if this verse is a battle cry. It may sound odd, but it's because this verse empowers me to act by reminding me that God doesn't care about my age; He cares about my soul.
God doesn’t look at the external, He looks at the internal. He sees our soul and how it overflows into the way we care for others, speak up for change, and love others. He doesn't overlook us because of our age. Instead, He looks into us - past the messes, insecurities, and struggles - and He finds above all else a heart that beats only for Him and His people.
We live in a time when young people are often overlooked and criticized for only caring about themselves. But I know the truth. I've witnessed first-hand the amazing things that young people do for others. I've seen how they passionately and vigorously serve others, how they overcome differences to come together as one, and how they are making a difference in our world. We are living in a prime time for young people to stand firm in their convictions, raise their voices, and set an example for others. Whether it's advocating for safety, marching to end racism, putting a red x on their hand to stop human trafficking, or speaking up against a bully, young people’s actions and voices matter like never before and have the power to stir up a change in our world.
1 Timothy 4:12 is the battle cry of our generation. Our age doesn't stop us from being the world-changers God has called us to be. Instead, it propels us to set an example to other believers in the way we act, speak, and love.
We are young at heart and that's exactly what qualifies to run full speed into the mess of this world with the message of Jesus.
Ashley Roman
Executive Assistant