Growing in the ways of the Lord doesn't happen by accident. It is realized by having purpose. Walking in the ways of the Lord is, at times, difficult, no matter what your age, but is compounded in young people because of the physical, mental, and emotional developments which are taking place at the same time.
The book of Proverbs is a reservoir of simple principles of wisdom that wait to be drawn from by those who thirst for truth and triumph. The successful navigation of life for any person happens as a result of careful instruction, consistent encouragement, and earnest prayer. Let me suggest several of the challenges that we will face in our ongoing walk and growth in Christ:
PEER PRESSURE
'Everybody's doing it,' so they say. The pressure to conform is especially great on the maturing identity which has yet to be aggressively tested. Proverbs 1:10, 'My son, if sinners entice you, do not give in to them.' Pray that the Lord will bring about the strength and confidence to resist the pressure of confirmity to any image or system other than that which is of the Lord.
THE FLESH
Unchallenged passions and inexperience in dealing with emotions, coupled with our innate compulsion toward having our own way, makes for a partcularly sensitive possibility toward failure in all of us. II Timothy 2:22, 'Flee the evil desires of youth and pursue a righteous faith, love, peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.' Pray for the young people to rightly regard their emotions and natural passions so they do not become vitcims of them.
THE WORLD MIND
Television, radio, music, contemporary philosophy... all attempt to deceive young people into falling for attitudes and lifestyles which can only, in the end, destroy and erode their love for Christ. Proverbs 1:7, 'The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge.' Pray for the young people to be firmly grounded in the Lord on a foundation of reverence for His Word and His ways. Also pray against the deceiving spirits that would entice and mislead.
ABSENCE OF AUTHORITY
When parents and those who deal with young people fail to model a Godly standard and effective leadership, coupled with the growing disrespect for authority, then irresponsibility becomes the result. Deuteronomy 6:6-7, 'These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts; impress them on your children, talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you rise up.' Pray for parents to lead their children effectively during these crucial days.
Upon careful examination of these verses, the problems of young people are no different than the problems faced by adults. As we pray for the young ones of the nation and our community, few of us can declare exemption from the need for prayer in our lives in some of these same needed areas.
Praying more,
Ron Mehl"