Tag Archives: young-people

CHALLENGES YOUNG PEOPLE FACE: Being a Light in the Darkness by Willie A. Alvarenga

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Another important challenge young people face today is being a light in the midst of darkness. We live in a world where sin is promoted, immorality is celebrated, and Biblical values are increasingly rejected. In the face of this reality, God calls Christian young people to live differently and to exert a positive influence on those around them. The apostle Paul wrote to the saints in Philippi: “That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world” (Phil. 2:15). These words clearly demonstrate the responsibility every Christian has to reflect the character of Christ in daily life.

Jesus also exhorted His disciples to be lights in the world when He said, “Ye are the light of the world” (Matt. 5:14-16). Light has the ability to dispel darkness, reveal the right path, and guide those who are lost. In the same way, the Christian young person must allow his or her conduct, words, and actions to reflect the will of God. Peter wrote, “But ye are a chosen generation… that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light” (1 Pet. 2:9).

How can young people be a light in the darkness? Consider the following ways:

(1) By loving God with all their being (Mark 12:30). Genuine love for God motivates obedience and faithfulness (John 14:15).

(2) By being an example of faithfulness (Titus 2:6-8). Paul exhorted Timothy, “Be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity” (1 Tim. 4:12).

(3) By being an example of holiness (1 Cor. 6:18-20; Heb. 12:14). God calls His children to be holy in all their conduct (1 Pet. 1:15-16).

(4) By refraining from corrupt speech (Eph. 4:29; Col. 4:6). A Christian’s words should edify and impart grace to those who hear them.

(5) By obeying their parents (Eph. 6:1-3). Obedience and respect toward parents please God and serve as a powerful influence on other young people.

(6) By loving their neighbors (Mark 12:31). Christian love demonstrates to the world that we are disciples of Christ (John 13:34-35).

(7) By refusing to imitate bad examples (3 John 11; Rom. 12:1-2). The faithful young Christian does not follow sinful trends or practices that are contrary to the will of God.

(8) By speaking to others about Christ (Mark 16:15). Sharing the gospel is one of the most effective ways to illuminate a lost world (Rom. 1:16).

(9) By maintaining purity in thought and conduct (Phil. 4:8). Moral purity is increasingly necessary in a society filled with corruption and impurity.

(10) By choosing good friends (1 Cor. 15:33). Companions greatly influence one’s character and spiritual decisions.

(11) By persevering in prayer (1 Thess. 5:17). Prayer strengthens faith and helps the Christian remain steadfast in the face of temptation (Matt. 26:41).

(12) By diligently studying the word of God (2 Tim. 2:15). Spiritual light increases when Christians know and apply the Scriptures in their lives.

These are only a few of the ways young people can allow the light of Christ to shine through their lives. When a young person lives according to the will of God, he or she can become a positive influence on friends, classmates, family members, and the community. Their example may motivate others to seek God and obey the gospel of Christ.

Never underestimate the impact that a faithful life can have on others. Daniel was a light in the midst of a pagan nation (Dan. 1:8; 6:10), Joseph remained faithful to God in Egypt (Gen. 39:7-12), and Timothy served as an example to believers from his youth (1 Tim. 4:12). These men demonstrated that it is possible to remain faithful to God even when the majority chooses to follow a different path. They provide excellent examples of what it means to be a light in the darkness.

Therefore, we encourage every young person to be a light in the darkness so that God may be glorified. Remember that you have the potential to accomplish this because God has given you everything that pertains to life and godliness (2 Pet. 1:3). He has also given you a spirit of power, love, and self-discipline (2 Tim. 1:7). Allow the light of Christ to shine continually in your life so that others may see your good works and glorify your Father who is in heaven (Matt. 5:16).

To God be the glory through your life and faithful service to the Lord.

btsop2004@gmail.com

CHALLENGES YOUNG PEOPLE FACE: “IMITATING THE LIFE OF JESUS” by Willie A. Alvarenga

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One of the greatest challenges young Christians face today is imitating the life of Jesus. We live in a society where many young people look to artists, athletes, singers, or celebrities as role models, forgetting that the only perfect example worthy of imitation is Christ Jesus. The apostle Paul wrote to the saints in Corinth: “Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ” (1 Cor. 11:1). The verb “imitate” is in the imperative mood and present tense, indicating that following the example of Paul and Christ is not an optional suggestion, but a continual command for all Christians.

The Bible clearly teaches that the Christian must not conform to the ways of this world. Paul exhorted: “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Rom. 12:2). Sadly, many young people allow fashions, social media, wrong friendships, and fleshly desires to influence their lives more than the Word of God. The apostle John warned: “Do not love the world or the things in the world” (1 Jn. 2:15-17). Everything the world offers is temporary and can lead young people away from God. Moses understood this truth when he chose to suffer with the people of God rather than enjoy “the passing pleasures of sin” (Heb. 11:25).

Faithful young Christians must strive daily to imitate the virtues and character of Christ. Jesus Himself declared: “For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you” (Jn. 13:15). The disciple of Christ must reflect His life in every aspect of conduct.

The young Christian must imitate Jesus in:

  1. His obedience to the Father.
    Jesus always did the will of God. He said: “For I always do those things that please Him” (Jn. 8:29). Even in the midst of suffering, Christ perfectly obeyed the Father (Heb. 5:8-9; 10:7-9). The young person who desires to please God must learn to obey His Word without reservation (Jn. 14:15).
  2. His perseverance through trials.
    Jesus endured rejection, mockery, and persecution, yet He never abandoned His mission. Peter wrote: “Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps” (1 Pet. 2:21-25). Many young people face social pressure, criticism, and temptations, but they must remain steadfast in the faith (Jas. 1:12).
  3. His love for others.
    Christ demonstrated incomparable love toward all people. He taught: “Love one another; as I have loved you” (Jn. 13:34-35). Christian love is demonstrated through actions, service, patience, and compassion (1 Cor. 13:4-7).
  4. His prayer life.
    Jesus devoted constant time to prayer. Mark 1:35 states that early in the morning He sought solitary places to pray. In Gethsemane He also demonstrated complete dependence upon the Father (Mt. 26:36-46). Young people need to develop a strong spiritual life through continual prayer (1 Thess. 5:17).
  5. His compassion for lost souls.
    Jesus had compassion on the multitudes because they were “like sheep having no shepherd” (Mt. 9:36-38). Christ came to seek and save the lost (Lk. 19:10). Young Christians should be concerned about sharing the gospel with friends and family (Mk. 16:15-16).
  6. His willingness to forgive.
    Even while hanging on the cross, Jesus said: “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do” (Lk. 23:34). Young people must avoid bitterness and practice forgiveness (Eph. 4:31-32; Col. 3:13).
  7. His self-control in overcoming temptation.
    Jesus overcame Satan’s temptations by using the Word of God (Mt. 4:1-11). Today, young people face temptations related to immorality, bad friendships, drugs, corrupt language, and sinful entertainment. Nevertheless, God provides a way of escape (1 Cor. 10:13). Self-control is an essential characteristic of the faithful Christian (Gal. 5:22-23).
  8. His humility and spirit of service.
    Jesus, though the Son of God, came to serve and not to be served (Mk. 10:45). He washed His disciples’ feet as an example of humility and service to others (Jn. 13:3-5). Young Christians must reject pride and learn to serve others with sincerity and love (Phil. 2:3-5).
  9. His purity of life.
    Christ lived without sin (1 Pet. 2:22). In a world filled with moral corruption, young people must remain pure in thought, word, and conduct. Paul exhorted Timothy: “Be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity” (1 Tim. 4:12).
  10. His faithfulness to the truth.
    Jesus always taught divine truth without compromise (Jn. 17:17). Today many change the truth in order to please the world, but the young Christian must remain firm in sound doctrine (2 Tim. 1:13; Jude 3).

Young people who choose to imitate the life of Jesus will be a light in the midst of darkness (Mt. 5:14-16). Their lives will positively influence others and glorify God. Although the Christian life is not always easy, it is worthwhile to follow in the footsteps of the Savior. Peter asked: “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life” (Jn. 6:68).

All young people are encouraged to seek God daily through prayer, diligent study of the Scriptures, and faithful obedience. If they allow Christ to live in them, then the world will see the character of Jesus reflected in their lives (Gal. 2:20). The young person who imitates Christ will find purpose, strength, and eternal hope.

Willie A. Alvarenga | (817) 681 4543 | btsop2004@gmail.com

CHALLENGES YOUNG PEOPLE FACE: NOT GIVING IN TO THE PRESSURE OF THE WORLD by Willie A. Alvarenga

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One of the greatest challenges young people face today is not giving in to the pressure of the world. We live in a society where sin, immorality, disobedience to God, and the rejection of Biblical values are constantly promoted. Young people are bombarded daily through social media, friendships, entertainment, and modern culture, all of which often seek to draw them away from God and His will.

The wise man wrote: “My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not” (Prov. 1:10). The term “consent” denotes the act of allowing oneself to be seduced or influenced by someone; yielding to their demands or voluntarily accepting a certain course of action as a sign of obedience or submission. God desires for young people to have the courage to say “no” to sin and to remain steadfast in the midst of a corrupt generation (Phil. 2:15).

The pressure of the world can manifest itself in many ways: pressure to participate in impure conversations, consume sinful entertainment, dress immodestly, engage in bullying, use drugs or alcohol, participate in sexual immorality, lie in order to be accepted, or abandon faithfulness to God in order to fit in with others. Many young people have yielded to this pressure because they desire acceptance from others. However, the Bible clearly teaches that “evil companionships corrupt good morals” (1 Cor. 15:33).

Moses understood that the pleasures of sin are temporary. Hebrews 11:25 says that he chose “rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season.” The world offers temporary pleasure; however, such pleasure always brings painful consequences. Romans 6:23 teaches that “the wages of sin is death,” and James 1:13-15 explains that sin, when it is fully grown, brings forth spiritual death.

The Christian young person must remember that he cannot love the world and please God at the same time. The apostle John wrote: “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world” (1 Jn. 2:15-17). James also declares that “friendship with the world is enmity with God” (Jas. 4:4). For this reason, the faithful young Christian must strive to live a holy life separated from sin (1 Pet. 1:14-16).

What can the Christian young person do in order not to give in to the pressure of the world? The Bible offers practical principles that will help one remain faithful:

  1. Pray constantly to God in order not to fall into temptation and ask Him for wisdom (Mt. 26:41; Jas. 1:5-6; Phil. 4:6-7).
  2. Put on the whole armor of God in order to resist the schemes of the devil (Eph. 6:10-18).
  3. Imitate the example of faithful young people such as Joseph, who fled from immorality (Gen. 39:7-12), and Daniel, who purposed not to defile himself (Dan. 1:8).
  4. Fill your mind with the Word of God, because it helps overcome sin (Ps. 119:9-11; Col. 3:16).
  5. Choose wise and spiritual friendships that will help you draw closer to God (Prov. 13:20).
  6. Remember that the things of this world are temporary and will soon pass away (1 Jn. 2:15-17; 2 Cor. 4:18).
  7. Develop a deep love for God with all your heart (Mk. 12:30), for those who truly love God will seek to obey Him (Jn. 14:15).
  8. Stay busy in spiritual matters, faithfully participating in worship, Bible study, and good works (Heb. 10:24-25).
  9. Think before acting, remembering that every decision has consequences (Gal. 6:7-8).
  10. Trust that God will always provide a way of escape in times of temptation (1 Cor. 10:13).

The Christian young person is not alone in this struggle. God promises to strengthen those who remain faithful. Paul wrote: “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me” (Phil. 4:13). Although the pressure of the world may be great, the power of God is far greater. Therefore, the young Christian must remain steadfast, courageous, and faithful, always remembering that in Christ “we are more than conquerors” (Rom. 8:37-39). Therefore, never give in to the pressure of the world.

btsop2004@gmail.com

CHALLENGES YOUNG PEOPLE FACE: LEARNING TO STAY BUSY IN THE WORK OF THE LORD by Willie A. Alvarenga

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Another important challenge young people face today is learning to stay busy in the work of the Lord. The distractions that this world presents to the young Christian are many. In most cases, these distractions keep young people from remaining active in the service to God. The Bible reminds us that Christians must not allow the world to pull them away from their faithfulness to God. 1 John teaches that we must not love the world or the things in the world because the world is passing away, but the one who does the will of God abides forever (1 John 2:15-17). Young Christians must remember that Satan constantly seeks opportunities to discourage them from serving God faithfully. For this reason, they must remain spiritually alert and steadfast in their commitment to Christ.

What are some activities in which young people should participate, but often fail to do because of distractions? The following are worthy of serious consideration: (1) Participating in the different privileges during worship to God such as singing, leading prayers, Scripture readings, assisting with the Lord’s Supper, devotionals, and other areas of service, (2) Participating in youth activities that strengthen Christian fellowship and spiritual growth, (3) Taking part in personal evangelism by sharing the gospel with friends, classmates, neighbors, and relatives, (4) Helping in congregational events such as lectureships, gospel meetings, seminars, vacation Bible schools, and evangelistic campaigns, and (5) Encouraging other young people to become active and faithful members of the congregation. Ecclesiastes reminds young people to “remember now your Creator in the days of your youth” (Ecclesiastes 12:1). Likewise, 1 Timothy teaches that young Christians can be examples “in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity” (1 Timothy 4:12).

God has always been pleased with young people who take seriously the work of His kingdom. Throughout the Scriptures we read about faithful young servants such as Joseph, Daniel, and Timothy who remained faithful to God despite difficult circumstances and worldly pressures. Young person, you have great potential to serve our God faithfully. Never underestimate the value of your service in the kingdom of Christ. Therefore, you are encouraged to make every effort to keep the distractions of this world from pulling you away from offering acceptable service to God. Colossians exhorts Christians: “And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men” (Colossians 3:23). To all the young people who are already active in the Lord’s work, thank you for your faithful service to God and for your example to others. Keep pressing forward, “steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord” (1 Corinthians 15:58).

CHALLENGES YOUNG PEOPLE FACE: LEARNING TO PRAY AS JESUS PRAYED by Willie A. Alvarenga

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Another important challenge young people face today is learning to pray as Jesus prayed. Prayer is an essential part of the Christian life (Phil. 4:6–7; Heb. 4:16; 1 Thess. 5:17). One cannot live according to God’s will unless the practice of prayer is taken very seriously (Matt. 26:41). The Bible teaches much about our communication with God, showing that prayer strengthens faith, brings peace to the heart, and draws us closer to the Father (Ps. 55:17; Jer. 33:3). The apostle Paul emphasized the command to pray without ceasing (1 Thess. 5:17; Col. 4:2; Rom. 12:12), reminding us that prayer must be constant, persistent, and full of gratitude.

This practice of prayer was very close to the heart of Jesus. He is truly our greatest and supreme example to follow regarding prayer (1 Pet. 2:21; Mk. 1:35). Throughout the Gospel accounts according to Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, we see that Jesus practiced prayer in different contexts and key moments of His life. For example, He prayed at His baptism (Luke 3:21), showing dependence on the Father from the beginning of His ministry; He prayed very early in the morning (Mark 1:35), demonstrating spiritual discipline; He prayed for long periods before making important decisions (Luke 6:12), teaching us to seek divine guidance; He prayed before eating (John 6:11), showing gratitude; He prayed for His disciples (John 17), demonstrating love and intercession; and He prayed during the most difficult moments of His life (Matt. 26:36–46; Heb. 5:7), revealing His complete submission to the will of God.

Furthermore, Jesus not only practiced prayer, but He also taught how to pray correctly. In the Sermon on the Mount, He instructed His disciples about the proper attitude in prayer (Matt. 6:5–15), emphasizing sincerity, humility, and trust in God. He also taught the importance of perseverance through parables such as the persistent friend and the persistent widow (Luke 11:5–13; 18:1–8). Likewise, He showed that prayer must be offered with faith (Mark 11:24), according to God’s will (Matt. 6:10), and with a pure heart (Ps. 66:18).

This is the prayer life that every young Christian must imitate from Jesus. It is a challenge to live this way in a world full of distractions, but it is not impossible (Phil. 4:13). It requires discipline, spiritual desire, and a heart willing to please God (Col. 3:17). Constant prayer will help the young person overcome temptation, strengthen faith, and remain steadfast in the path of the Lord (Eph. 6:18).

Therefore, you are encouraged to pray to God for wisdom (James 1:5) and to learn to pray as He desires. Make prayer a daily priority in your life. The blessings you will receive by doing this will be great, for God hears His children and answers according to His perfect will (1 John 5:14–15).

Challenges Young People Face Today: “Being Wise in Choosing the Person You Want to Marry” by Willie A. Alvarenga

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Another important challenge young people face today is being very wise when choosing the person they want to marry. Sooner or later, most will seek someone to unite with in marriage and build a family in the future. However, the process of finding the right person is not easy, since it involves not only emotions, but also spiritual decisions that will affect one’s entire life. Therefore, every young person who plans to have a family should, from an early age, pray to God for the wisdom needed to make a prudent decision (James 1:5).

The Bible clearly teaches that our decisions must be guided by God and not merely by momentary feelings (Proverbs 3:5–6). Choosing a partner should not be based on physical appearance or temporary interests, but on solid spiritual principles (1 Samuel 16:7). The Christian young person must understand that marriage is a sacred union established by God (Genesis 2:24) and, therefore, requires a wise and well-thought-out decision.

Searching for a marriage partner is a serious task because it involves the following:

  1. Seeking someone who will help me reach heaven one day (Matthew 6:33).
  2. Seeking someone who truly and sincerely loves me (1 Corinthians 13:4–7).
  3. Seeking someone who cares for me in good times and in bad (Ecclesiastes 4:9–12).
  4. Seeking someone who loves God above all things (Matthew 22:37).
  5. Seeking someone who deeply values Christ’s sacrifice on the cross (Ephesians 5:25).
  6. Seeking someone who desires to build a family according to God’s will (Psalm 127:1).
  7. Seeking someone who does not love the world or the things in it (1 John 2:15–17).
  8. Seeking someone who will not become a stumbling block to my spirituality (1 Corinthians 15:33).
  9. Seeking someone willing to fulfill their role in the home: to provide [man] and to care for the home [woman] (1 Timothy 5:8; Titus 2:4–5).
  10. Seeking someone who desires to grow spiritually with me (2 Peter 3:18).

It is also important to remember that patience is key in this process. Such an important decision should not be rushed (Ecclesiastes 3:1). Waiting on God’s timing will always bring better results (Psalm 37:4–5).

Finding a person with these qualities is not only possible, but also attainable if the young person practices spiritual wisdom, studies God’s Word consistently, and maintains a life of prayer. When God guides the decision, the result will be a relationship that not only brings happiness in this life, but also helps both individuals attain eternal life.

Challenges Young People Face: “Cultivating the Desire to Be Part of the Biblical Organization of the Church” by Willie A. Alvarenga

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One important challenge that young people face today is cultivating the desire to be part of the biblical organization of the church. When I speak of the biblical organization of the church, I am referring to the different responsibilities that God has entrusted to elders, deacons, and preachers (Philippians 1:1; Acts 20:28; 1 Timothy 3:1–13; Titus 1:5–9; 1 Peter 5:1–4). These roles are not human inventions, but part of God’s divine design for the proper functioning and spiritual growth of the Lord’s church

The young Christian should seriously consider the possibility of serving one day in one of these responsibilities and privileges available in the church. The Bible teaches that desiring to serve in these areas is good and honorable: “This is a faithful saying: If a man desires the position of a bishop, he desires a good work” (1 Timothy 3:1). Therefore, it is essential that young people grow in such a way that they develop a deep desire to serve God—whether as future elders, deacons, ministers of the Word, or as faithful, committed, and active Christians in the work of the Lord (1 Corinthians 15:58).

It is a great challenge to think about and pray regarding becoming part of these beautiful responsibilities one day. However, this desire begins with a willing heart to serve. The brothers who currently serve as elders, deacons, and preachers also went through a process of spiritual growth, prayer, and serious reflection regarding their responsibility to serve the church in these areas (1 Timothy 3:8–13; Titus 1:5–9). No one reaches these roles overnight; it is the result of a life of preparation, faithfulness, and maturity in Christ.

The Bible also presents examples of young people who chose to serve God from an early age, such as Timothy (2 Timothy 2:15) and Jeremiah (Jeremiah 1:6–7). These servants understood that age is not a limitation to begin serving, but an opportunity to prepare more effectively.

We encourage all young Christians to diligently study the Scriptures so that they may be well prepared to serve the Lord’s church in the future. Knowledge of God’s Word is essential for anyone who desires to serve (2 Timothy 3:16–17; Psalm 119:11). Likewise, it is important to develop Christian qualities such as a good example, discipline, humility, and love for souls (1 Timothy 4:12).

Preaching schools can be a great blessing in training men for the work of elders, deacons, or gospel preachers. However, preparation also begins at home, within the local congregation, and in the daily life of the Christian (Deuteronomy 6:6–7).

If you begin to reflect, prepare, and pray from an early age, God can bless you with the wonderful opportunity to serve the church in different capacities. Remember that serving God is both a privilege and a responsibility (Colossians 3:23–24). I encourage you to place your life in the Lord’s hands and allow Him to use you for His honor and glory.