So You’re Young...

Ryan Leatham

Have you ever been looked down on because of your age? See if any of these things sound familiar: "you're just a kid," "you can't really change the world," "when you're grown-up you'll understand." These are the things that you hear on a regular basis.

Hear this--you can set the example among your peers--even those who are older than you.

"Let no one despise you for your youth, but set for the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity" 1 Timothy 4:12.

This is because your influence and maturity is not about your age; it is about your obedience to Jesus. Your reputation (what you do when people are watching) and your integrity (what you do even when nobody is watching) will determine your influence!

REPUTATION + INTEGRITY = INFLUENCE

5 Ways Young People Can Set an Example and Influence Others:

1. In Speech

Do you use your words to build people up or tear them down?

2. In Conduct 

Think about the example you set in how you carry yourself; your behavior.

3. In Love

Love is demonstrated when we serve and care for those around us.

4. In Faith 

How is your relationship with Jesus? Do your actions show that you trust Him?

5. In Purity

Purity is not just about running from sexual sin--it is about running to Jesus.

Young men and women, seniors in high school, middle school boys—“youth” can set an example for friends and elders. The reason you would set an example is so that, as you grow, you push others to grow as well. Point people to Jesus, and He'll do the rest. Lives will be changed. No matter your age, Jesus is always enough.