INFLUENCING OUR GENERATION FOR CHRIST
MAY 16, 2026
*TEXT: _Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity._ (1 Timothy 4:12)*
Today’s teaching borders on the need for us to use our youthful energy and strength for the purpose of Kingdom population. It is no longer news that the devil keeps gaining more ground over the people in the world, especially the youths who appear to be his foremost targets.
God is earnestly looking for willing youths to raise the banner and influence lost youths and souls into the Kingdom. Most people feel they have to wait till they are older before they can be used by God, but even the Bible itself negates this misconception. David was a little shepherd boy when God used him to facilitate victory for the Israelites over the Philistines. Jeremiah was a youth when God called him and said, *“Do not say, ‘I am a youth.’ For you shall go to all to whom I send you…” (Jeremiah 1:6-8).*
Timothy was a little boy who was picked up and baptized by Paul at Lystra. Timothy proceeded to become a respected church leader and trusted ally of Paul, together with the likes of Titus, Aristarchus, Sopater, etc. (2 Timothy 2:22).
Therefore, we should never see ourselves as being too young. God expects certain acts from youths which include, but are not limited to, the following:
1. Conduct yourself in a manner that is befitting of the gospel. Let your conduct preach Christ. How can the redeemed of God sag, get worldly haircuts/hairstyles, use foul words, mingle with ungodly people, attend ungodly gatherings, etc.?
2. Don’t compromise the gospel for personal comfort. You are out there to please God and not any other person.
3. Be bold and lion-hearted in sharing the gospel. (Romans 1:16)
Influence begins with personal holiness. How can you influence others to be holy when you are not holy yourself?
*SEARCHLIGHT:* As a youth, your life can actually have a sort of influence on the already-perishing world.
*PRAYER:* O LORD, MAKE ME YOUR BATTLE AXE IN THIS GENERATION, IN JESUS’ NAME.
*BIBLE READING:* 2 Chronicles 27-29, Hebrews 2
*PASTOR MICHAEL OMOLE*
