Taking the Reins

Teachings for Youth

July 18, 2013

MEMORY VERSE:

“Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young,

but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love,

in faith and in purity.” 1 Timothy 4:12

INTRODUCTION

A youth cannot possibly reach success unless he/she takes the reins every now and then. Sooner or later, the road to success will require that he/she take the reins… and the very idea is frightening to the youth and an opportunity for the ridicule and criticism of everyone around him/her. At this point, how can he/she possibly take the reins in order to reach success?

I. See that youth is a blessing.

  • Youth is a blessing because of raw strength.
  • Youth is a blessing because of the luxury of time to exercise immediate change.

II. See why youth is a challenge.

  • Youth’s naivety generates opportunity for ridicule.
  • Youth’s naivety generates opportunity for criticism.

III. See that youth is empowered to take the reins.

  • Youth’s innocence empowers it to become a guileless example for others.
  • Youth’s innocence empowers it to become a poignant example for others.

CONCLUSION

Every youth will have to take the reins sooner or later. Whenever God calls a youth to take the reins, He gives him a clear picture of what he/she is getting into and shows why he/she in particular would be the greatest blessing if he/she takes the reins right then and there. Every youth called by God to take the reins will surely be empowered by God mightily.

REFLECTION: Let us ask ourselves the following questions:

  • Am I glad that God has called me to take the reins now?
    • If so… why?
    • If not… why not?
  • In what ways is my youthfulness as I take the reins a blessing to everyone concerned?
  • What ridicules have I received/ will receive in taking the reins?
    • From my fellow youth?
    • From my superiors?
    • From my family and friends?
    • From my enemies?
  • What criticisms have I received/ will receive in taking the reins?
    • From my fellow youth?
    • From my superiors?
    • From my family and friends?
    • From my enemies?
  • How has God empowered me to take the reins?

APPLICATION:

= prayer of commitment =

Ever dearest Father, thank You for asking me to take the reins now. Help me to always see the clear picture as to how… and to be patient enough for the why. I surrender the reins to You. I entrust the ability to take these reins into Your hands. Amen.

= statement of commitment =

Whenever God asks me to take the reins, I will take it. Whenever I take the reins, I will surrender it to God and allow Him to empower me.

CLOSING PRAYER

To top