I have been privileged on numerous occasions in the past to feature some of my daughter's writings, inspired by her love for Jesus. Her desire always is to share the gospel with others, to see God honored and glorified. Today I have the honor of featuring a speech presented by her 15-year-old daughter, our precious granddaughter Hallie. How priceless to share a love of the Lord with family!
My fellow classmates:
Teens and young adults ought to participate in ministry, as God commands all
believers to serve others. Obedience to God’s call to ministry
produces joy within the heart of all believers, including young people.
What I
mean by ministry is utilizing the gifts God has given by helping and serving
those within the church body as well as those in the community. Even though
youthful, we as students, have gifts to offer.
1 Timothy 4:12 states: “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.”
As young men
and women of Christ, we as students, must utilize our gifts that Christ has
given us to show others the love of the Lord working through us in our actions
and speech.
Society often pressures teens toward self-centered ideals. Will we
continue to be distracted or will we, as young believers, stand firm in Christ
for his glory, thus experiencing true joy that comes through the only Son of
God?
We must obey the call even though ministry can be challenging. The Lord
commands believers, through His servant Paul, in Colossians 3:17 stating: “And
whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord
Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him.”
One day life will end
and we will give an account of our life here on earth. I pray that we will not let our youthfulness
hinder the call we have as believers in Christ. Instead, that we will go and serve
willingly.
Remember, living the Christian life is not about doing for Christ,
but letting Christ live His life in and through you; Christ alone does the
work. Will we let Him work through us? I pray we do!
Hallie Tyhuis
