Young! Get Involved and Do the Lord's Work Mark 16:15

May 21, 2025 Youth

Young! Get Involved and Do the Lord's Work Mark 16:15

Today, I want to ignite a fire in your hearts, a holy urgency to understand and embrace your vital role in God's Kingdom. The world often tells young people to wait their turn, to prepare for the future. But the Bible, and especially the words of Jesus, issue a powerful, immediate call: "Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature" (Mark 16:15). Young people, it’s time to get involved and do the Lord’s work!

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1. The Call to Do the Work is for Everyone, Including Young People (Mark 16:15)

"Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature."

Notice the universality of this command. Jesus did not limit this magnificent calling to adults, to seasoned leaders, or to those with decades of experience. His commission was given to all His followers, and that absolutely includes you, our young people! You are not merely the future of the church; you are the church right now. You are called, you are sent, and you are empowered to carry the message of the Gospel to every creature.

2. Youth Is the Ideal Time to Serve with Strength and Passion (Ecclesiastes 12:1)

"Remember your Creator in the days of your youth, before the days of trouble come and the years approach when you will say, 'I find no pleasure in them.'"

The season of youth is a precious gift from God, characterized by abundant energy, boundless creativity, and a disposition for passion. Ecclesiastes 12:1 urges you to remember your Creator during this vibrant phase. It is the ideal time to sow seeds in the Kingdom of God, to invest your strength, your fresh perspectives, and your unique gifts in His work before the inevitable slowing down of life. Don't waste this prime season!

3. Don't Wait Until You're 'Too Ready' to Obey the Call (1 Timothy 4:12)

"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."

Sometimes, young people hesitate because they feel "too young" or "not ready enough." But God doesn't wait for perfect readiness; He empowers those who are simply available. Paul's instruction to Timothy directly addresses this: don't let anyone despise your youth. Instead, set an example for believers. God doesn't call the equipped; He equips the called. Step out in faith, knowing that even in your perceived inexperience, God will use you mightily.

4. The World Needs to Hear the Gospel You Carry (Romans 10:14)

"How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?"

This verse highlights a profound responsibility. The world around you, your friends, your classmates, your family members – they desperately need to hear the Gospel. And how will they hear, if not through someone who preaches? Every young Christian is a bearer of the most important message in history: the good news of Jesus Christ. You are strategically placed in unique circles where only you can reach certain people. Don't withhold the life-changing message you carry.

5. Doing the Lord’s Work Is a Sign of Love and Gratitude to God (John 14:15)

"If you love me, keep my commands."

Getting involved in the Lord's mission is not a burden; it is a natural response of love and gratitude to God. When we truly comprehend the depth of His love for us, demonstrated on the cross, our hearts are moved to obey His commands, including the Great Commission. Serving Him, sharing His love, and participating in His work becomes a joyful outflow of our devotion and thankfulness.

6. There Are Different Ways to Do the Work: Discover Your Role (1 Corinthians 12:5)

"There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord."

You might think "doing the Lord's work" only means standing on a street corner preaching. While that's one way, God has designed His body with diversities of ministries. Whether it's through evangelism, discipleship, leading worship, serving in media, engaging in social action, using your artistic talents, or simply living a consistent, Christ-like life in your sphere of influence – God has a specific mission for each young person. Discover your unique gifts and passions, and find where you fit in the vast tapestry of God's work.

7. The Reward Is Eternal for Those Who Serve Faithfully (Matthew 25:23)

"His master replied, 'Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!'"

Serving the Lord is never in vain. Matthew 25:23 promises an incredible reward for those who serve faithfully: the commendation of "Well done, good and faithful servant!" and an invitation to "enter into the joy of your master." The blessings you receive in this life are great, but the eternal reward for those who give themselves with sincerity and zeal to God's work is beyond measure.

Young! Get Involved and Do the Lord's Work Mark 16:15

Conclusion:

Young people, hear the call of your Savior today! Don't be spectators in the Kingdom of God. Your youth is a powerful asset, not a hindrance. The world desperately needs the message you carry. Your involvement is a response of love, and there are countless ways for you to serve. Most importantly, know that your faithful service will be eternally rewarded.

So, rise up! Get involved! Discover your place, offer your gifts, and wholeheartedly do the Lord's work. May your generation be marked by a passionate commitment to the Great Commission, for the glory of God. Amen.

Young People Who Accept Counsel and Discipline Are Wise Proverbs 19:20

May 21, 2025 Youth

Young People Who Accept Counsel and Discipline Are Wise Proverbs 19:20

Life for young people is a journey of discovery, growth, and countless decisions. In this exciting yet challenging phase, the temptation can be to rely solely on one's own understanding, to dismiss the wisdom of those who have gone before, or to resist correction. However, God's Word offers a profound truth: young people who accept counsel and discipline are truly wise. Today, we'll explore why embracing guidance and correction is not a sign of weakness, but a pathway to genuine wisdom and a blessed life.

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1. Listening to Advice Is the Path to Wisdom (Proverbs 19:20)

"Listen to advice and accept discipline, and at the end you will be wise."

This proverb lays it out plainly: wisdom isn't a spontaneous gift that simply appears with age. It's acquired by those who actively listen to advice and humbly apply what they learn. For young people, this means valuing the input of parents, mentors, pastors, and older, wiser individuals. Openness to counsel is the very first step on the path to becoming truly wise.

2. Rebellion Closes Doors; Humility Opens Paths (Proverbs 12:15)

"The way of fools seems right to them, but the wise listen to advice."

The "way of a fool" is characterized by self-sufficiency and a closed mind. Rebellion against guidance doesn't lead to freedom; it closes doors and isolates one from truth and genuine growth. Conversely, a young person who demonstrates humility and listens to advice, even when it's difficult, opens up new paths. What you hear and absorb, you grow in. Rejecting counsel stunts spiritual and personal development.

3. Correction Prevents Large Drops in the Future (Proverbs 19:18)

"Discipline your children, for in that there is hope; do not be a willing party to their death."

This verse, though strong, highlights a critical truth: correction does not destroy; it preserves. God, in His love, often uses people and circumstances to shape a young person's character, to steer them away from harmful paths, and to prevent "large drops" or devastating mistakes in the future. Embrace correction as a form of divine care, meant to save you from deeper troubles.

4. Listening to Leaders and Parents Is a Sign of Spiritual Intelligence (Proverbs 1:8)

"Listen, my son, to your father’s instruction and do not forsake your mother’s teaching."

God has placed counselors all around us – parents, spiritual leaders, teachers, and mature believers. To ignore these voices, especially those of parents, is to disregard God's own provision and care for your life. It's a sign of spiritual intelligence to recognize and value the instruction and teaching that comes from those appointed to guide you. Their experience can save you from unnecessary pain.

5. Accepting Discipline Today Is Reaping Rewards Tomorrow (Proverbs 12:1)

"Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but whoever hates correction is stupid."

The proverb makes a blunt statement: loving instruction leads to knowledge, while hating reproof reveals a lack of wisdom. A young person who loves to be molded, to be taught, and to be disciplined is actively preparing themselves for a blessed, productive, and fulfilling life. The short-term discomfort of correction pales in comparison to the long-term rewards of wisdom and righteous living.

6. Pride Is the Greatest Enemy of Wisdom (Proverbs 11:2)

"When pride comes, then comes dishonor, but with humility comes wisdom."

Pride is the ultimate roadblock to receiving counsel and discipline. It whispers, "I know best," or "I don't need anyone's help." But the Bible clearly states that pride leads to dishonor, while humility paves the way for wisdom. Recognizing that you don't know everything, that you have much to learn, is not a weakness but the essential first step toward real growth and true wisdom.

7. God Corrects Those He Loves (Proverbs 3:12)

"because the Lord disciplines those he loves, as a father the son he delights in."

Finally, understand that discipline is a profound sign of God's love and care. Just as a loving father corrects his cherished son, God disciplines those He delights in. Wise young people do not reject this discipline as punishment or rejection. Instead, they welcome it with gratitude, understanding that it's a process of refinement by their Heavenly Father who desires their ultimate good and conformity to the image of His Son.

Young People Who Accept Counsel and Discipline Are Wise Proverbs 19:20

Conclusion:

Beloved young people, the path to wisdom, blessing, and an impactful life is clearly marked: it's the path of accepting counsel and discipline. Don't let pride or a desire for instant gratification prevent you from embracing the guidance God has provided.

Choose humility over rebellion.

Embrace correction as preservation.

Listen to the wise voices around you.

Recognize discipline as a sign of God's loving hand.

As you do, you will not only grow in wisdom but also experience the abundant life God has planned for you.

Young man, count on God

May 21, 2025 Youth

Young man, count on God

Life for a young person is a constant stream of decisions, big and small. From choosing what to study, to forming relationships, to planning for the future, the choices can be overwhelming. In this sea of options, the temptation is often to rely solely on our own intellect, our friends' advice, or popular trends. But God’s Word offers a far superior guide: "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight" (Proverbs 3:5-6). Today, we’re going to explore what it means to truly count on God in every aspect of your life.

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1. Count on God in Every Decision You Make (Proverbs 3:6)

"In all your ways acknowledge him..."

This isn't just about the monumental, life-altering choices. God desires to be consulted and acknowledged in all your ways, even the seemingly small, everyday decisions. When you wake up, when you plan your day, when you engage with social media, when you choose your entertainment – God wants to be invited into every thought and action. Making Him a part of your daily rhythm cultivates a deeper dependence and ensures your steps are aligned with His will.

2. God Straightens the Path of Those Who Trust in Him (Proverbs 3:6)

"...and he will make your paths straight."

The promise is profound: when you acknowledge God in all your ways, He will make your paths straight. Life is full of twists and turns, uncertainties, and unexpected detours. For young people navigating this maze, it can be daunting. But even when you face confusion or doubt, God guides and opens safe, clear paths. He doesn't just show you the way; He prepares the way, removing obstacles and ensuring you stay on course.

3. Avoid Relying Solely on Your Own Wisdom (Proverbs 3:7)

"Do not be wise in your own eyes..."

This is a critical warning. While intelligence and personal understanding are gifts from God, self-confidence without a humble fear of God can lead to significant mistakes and deep frustrations. Your perspective is limited; God's is infinite. Leaning solely on your own understanding means relying on incomplete information and imperfect reasoning. True wisdom begins with acknowledging God's superior knowledge and submitting your thoughts to Him.

4. Fearing the Lord Is the Basis of a Stable Life (Proverbs 3:7)

"...fear the Lord and depart from evil."

What does it mean to "fear the Lord"? It's not about being terrified of Him, but about a profound awe, reverence, and respect for His holiness, power, and authority. This healthy fear leads to obedience and a desire to please Him. The young man or woman who fears God actively chooses wisely and consistently departs from evil, building a stable life that avoids destructive paths and honors God.

5. God Reveals His Will to Those Who Seek Him (Amos 3:7)

"Surely the Sovereign Lord does nothing without revealing his plan to his servants the prophets."

While this verse specifically mentions prophets, the principle holds true for all who diligently seek God: He wants to guide you. God desires to reveal His will and His plans for your life through His Word, through prayer, through the wise counsel of others, and through spiritual sensitivity to the Holy Spirit's leading. He doesn't keep His intentions a secret from those who genuinely long to walk with Him.

6. Whoever Walks with God Knows His Direction (Psalm 25:14)

"The Lord confides in those who fear him; he makes his covenant known to them."

This verse speaks of an intimate relationship. Those who walk closely with God, who fear and revere Him, are granted a special closeness where God "confides" in them. This means young people who walk with God gain discernment to understand God's timing and His will in a deeper, more personal way. They grasp the "secrets" of His covenant, understanding His purposes and how to align their lives with them.

7. Trusting God Brings Peace in the Midst of Difficult Decisions (Psalm 37:5)

"Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him and he will do this."

Youth often brings immense pressure and uncertainty regarding future decisions. This can lead to anxiety and stress. However, when you commit your way to the Lord—rolling your plans, anxieties, and desires onto Him—and trust Him completely, He promises to bring it about. This act of committed trust brings profound peace amidst even the most difficult choices, knowing that God is actively working on your behalf.

Conclusion:

Beloved young people, the call today is to count on God – not just sometimes, but in every decision, in all your ways. This means humbling yourselves, fearing the Lord, diligently seeking His will, and walking in close communion with Him.

When you do this, you will experience the incredible reality of God straightening your paths, revealing His direction, and filling you with peace even in the face of uncertainty. Don't navigate this journey alone or rely solely on your own limited wisdom. Count on God, for He is faithful to guide you all the way.

What is one decision you are currently facing where you need to deliberately "count on God" more this week? Amen.

Young people! We Must Live by God's Righteousness, Not by Our Own Ideas

May 21, 2025 Youth

Young people! We Must Live by God's Righteousness, Not by Our Own Ideas

In a world that constantly bombards us with individualistic ideas, where self-expression and personal truth are often elevated above all else, there's a powerful and liberating truth for young people found in God's Word: we are called to live by God's righteousness, not by our own ideas. This isn't about stifling your individuality, but about finding your true self in alignment with your Creator. Today, we'll delve into why relinquishing our own notions of "right" and embracing God's standard of righteousness is the pathway to true life and purpose.

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1. Our Life No Longer Belongs to Us: It Belongs to Christ (Galatians 2:20)

"I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me."

This foundational truth is paramount for young believers. When you accept Christ, you undergo a radical transformation. Your old self, with its independent will and self-serving desires, has been crucified with Him. Now, Christ lives in you! This means the young person who truly belongs to Christ abandons their own will and begins to live according to God's direction. It's a joyful surrender, not a loss, recognizing that His plan for your life is infinitely better than your own.

2. The Righteousness That Pleases God Comes Through Faith, Not Through Human Works (Philippians 3:9)

"...and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which is through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes from God on the basis of faith."

This verse speaks to the heart of our justification. No matter how good our intentions, no matter how sincere our efforts, no personal idea or human effort can ever replace the perfect righteousness that comes only through faith in Jesus Christ. God is not pleased with our attempts to earn His favor through our own "goodness." True righteousness is a gift, freely given by God through Christ, and it is the only basis upon which we can stand before Him.

3. Living by One's Own Righteousness Is Living in Deception (Proverbs 14:12)

"There is a way that appears to be right, but in the end it leads to death."

This proverb is a stark warning. Our own ideas of what is "right" or "good" can be incredibly deceptive. What seems logical, popular, or even beneficial from a human perspective can, in the end, lead to destruction. Human ideas, unchecked by divine truth, may appear right but often diverge from God's perfect will. Only God's Word, His unchanging standard of righteousness, truly shows the path to life and avoids deception.

4. God Is Not Pleased with a Proud and Independent Faith (Hebrews 10:38)

"And, 'But my righteous one will live by faith. And I take no pleasure in the one who shrinks back.'"

This verse, quoting Habakkuk, emphasizes that "the righteous will live by faith." A faith that is rooted in self-righteousness, pride, or independence from God's leading is ultimately displeasing to Him. Such self-reliance can lead to "shrinking back" from God's purposes. God's justice calls us to humility and obedience, acknowledging our need for Him in every step of our journey.

5. We Must Reject Confidence in Our Own Ability (Proverbs 3:5)

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding."

Young people are constantly challenged to rely on their own intelligence, their own opinions, and their own abilities. But to live by God's righteousness requires a conscious rejection of confidence in our own understanding. It means wholeheartedly trusting in the Lord, recognizing that His divine direction is always superior to personal opinions or fleeting trends. This is a foundational principle for living a life aligned with God's will.

6. Christ Is the Model and Source of True Righteousness (Romans 8:4)

"in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fully met in us, who do not live according to the flesh but according to the Spirit."

The goal is not to try harder to fulfill the law in our own strength, but to allow Christ to be the model and source of true righteousness in us. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, young people are guided to live justly, not by their own efforts, but in accordance with God's will. The Spirit empowers us to fulfill the righteous requirements of the law by living a Spirit-led life, reflecting Christ's character.

7. God's Righteousness Shapes Character, Decisions, and Future (Matthew 6:33)

"But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."

This pivotal verse assures us that when we prioritize seeking God's Kingdom and His righteousness, our lives are profoundly transformed. Those who live by the justice of God have their character shaped, their decisions guided, and their future sustained in all areas. It's a promise of holistic provision and guidance, demonstrating that aligning with God's perfect standard leads to a truly abundant and purposeful life.

Young people! We Must Live by God's Righteousness, Not by Our Own Ideas

Young Man, renew your strength and press on. Isaiah 40:29-31
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Top Preaching to Youth. Sermons for young people

Conclusion:

Young people, the call to live by God's righteousness, not your own ideas, is a call to freedom, authenticity, and ultimate fulfillment. It means acknowledging that your life belongs to Christ, receiving righteousness through faith, discerning truth from deception, humbly submitting to God, rejecting self-reliance, allowing Christ to be your model and source, and prioritizing His Kingdom above all else.

May you courageously choose to live by God's perfect standard, allowing His righteousness to shape every decision, every desire, and every aspiration. For in doing so, you will discover the true purpose and joy that only comes from walking in alignment with your Creator. Amen.

Young Man, Renew Your Strength and Press On. Isaiah 40:29-31

May 20, 2025 Youth

Young man, renew your strength and press on. Isaiah 40:29-31

Life as a young person in today's world can feel like a relentless marathon. The pressures of academics, social dynamics, future plans, and spiritual battles can be exhausting. There are moments when even the most energetic among us feel weary, overwhelmed, and ready to give up. But our God, in His infinite wisdom and power, offers a profound message of hope and renewal in Isaiah 40:29-31. Today, we will explore this passage and understand how to "renew your strength and press on."

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1. God Does Not Get Tired or Weary (Isaiah 40:28)

"Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom."

Even when we, with our youthful vitality, feel our energy draining away, God remains infinitely powerful and wise. Unlike humans, He never experiences fatigue, His understanding is boundless, and His power never diminishes. This truth is a foundational comfort: our source of strength is inexhaustible. When we feel limited, remember that God, our ultimate power source, is infallible and unchanging.

2. He Gives Strength to the Weary and Increases Their Might (Isaiah 40:29)

"He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak."

The good news is that God doesn't just not get tired; He actively intervenes to help those who are. When your own strength is depleted, when you feel you have no might left, God is ready to infuse you with His supernatural strength. The natural energy of youth, as strong as it may seem, is ultimately exhaustible. But divine strength is endless and always available to those who turn to Him. He empowers the weak to accomplish what seems impossible.

3. Even Youths Grow Tired and Weary, but God is With You (Isaiah 40:30)

"Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall."

This verse acknowledges a simple, yet profound, reality: human strength, no matter how robust, has its limits. Even vibrant young people, filled with natural vitality, will experience exhaustion, weariness, and moments of stumbling. The spiritual journey, like any demanding endeavor, will test your stamina. This isn't a sign of failure, but a natural part of the human experience. The key is to remember that in these moments of natural limitation, God is still with you. Your reliance must shift from your own capabilities to His divine presence.

4. Those Who Wait on the Lord Will Renew Their Strength (Isaiah 40:31a)

"But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength."

Here lies the secret to enduring strength: waiting on the Lord. "Waiting" here doesn't mean passive idleness, but active expectation, trust, and patient reliance on God. It involves spending time with Him in prayer, in His Word, and in quiet communion. This hope in God brings daily renewal, a fresh infilling of power, even on days when weakness and doubt seem to prevail. It's a continuous process of drawing from His inexhaustible well.

5. God Gives Wings Like Eagles (Isaiah 40:31b)

"They will soar on wings like eagles."

When you wait on the Lord, He doesn't just help you cope; He lifts you up. Eagles are known for their ability to soar effortlessly on air currents, rising above the storms. Similarly, God lifts young people above human circumstances and limitations. He enables you to gain a heavenly perspective, to rise above the chaos and pressures, and to see your challenges from His vantage point. This is supernatural elevation, not by your might, but by His Spirit.

6. Perseverance Comes from the Lord (Isaiah 40:31c)

"They will run and not grow weary."

Life is a race, and the Christian walk demands perseverance. The energy to persist through the battles of youth – whether they are academic, social, spiritual, or emotional – is sustained by God Himself. When you run with Him, you find a supernatural stamina that prevents weariness from overwhelming you. This isn't about never feeling tired, but about having the endurance to keep going when exhaustion sets in.

7. Steady Walking is Sustained by Faith (Isaiah 40:31d)

"They will walk and not be faint."

Beyond soaring and running, there's the daily, steady walk of faith. This is the routine, the consistent obedience, the step-by-step journey. And even in this sustained walking, God ensures you will not grow faint. Moving forward, consistently, day by day, is possible when a young person walks in daily communion and dependence on God. It’s His strength, not your own, that steadies your steps and keeps you from faltering.

Young man, renew your strength and press on. Isaiah 40:29-31

Conclusion

Beloved young people, and indeed all of us, God knows your struggles. He knows the pressures, the exhaustion, and the moments of doubt. But He is the everlasting God who never tires. He offers His inexhaustible strength to you.

So, when weariness comes, remember to wait on the Lord. In His presence, you will find renewed strength, the ability to soar above your challenges, the endurance to run the race, and the steadfastness to walk without growing faint.

May you mbrace this divine promise today and press on, knowing that your strength comes from the One who holds the universe in His hands.

Do you truly believe that God's strength is sufficient for your journey, even when your own is exhausted?

The Strength of Youth: Young People Facing Warriors (1 Samuel 17:33)

May 20, 2025 Youth

Theme: The Strength of Youth: Young People Facing Warriors (1 Samuel 17:33)

Today, we turn our attention to one of the most iconic stories in the Bible, a narrative that speaks volumes about courage, faith, and the surprising ways God uses the seemingly insignificant to accomplish His grand purposes. It is the story of a young shepherd boy named David, facing a formidable giant, Goliath. This account, found in 1 Samuel 17, offers profound lessons on the strength of youth, a strength rooted not in age or might, but in an unwavering trust in God.

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"But Saul said to David, 'You are not able to go against this Philistine to fight with him, for you are only a youth, and he has been a man of war from his youth.'" This verse encapsulates the prevailing human perspective: David's youth was seen as an insurmountable limitation. Yet, as we will see, God had already prepared him for this very moment, demonstrating that true strength comes from Him, regardless of age or perceived weakness.

1. Human Distrust Does Not Prevent God’s Call (1 Samuel 17:33)

Saul’s words to David – "You are not able to go against this Philistine to fight with him, for you are only a youth..." – perfectly illustrate human skepticism. Based on appearance and conventional wisdom, David was deemed unfit. Many young people today face similar skepticism, whether from society, from older generations, or even from within themselves. But God's call does not rely on human assessment. He sees potential, purpose, and a willing heart. David's youth was a perceived limitation by man, but it was irrelevant to God's divine preparation and calling.

2. Past Experiences Shape Present Courage (1 Samuel 17:34-35)

David recounts, "Your servant has been keeping his father’s sheep. When a lion or a bear came and carried off a sheep from the flock, I went after it, struck it and rescued the sheep from its mouth. When it turned on me, I seized it by its hair, struck it and killed it." Though young, David already had a history of facing formidable foes – a lion and a bear. These seemingly small victories, won in the quiet solitude of his shepherding life, were God's training ground. They built his faith and shaped his courage, demonstrating that even in our youth, God is preparing us through our experiences for the greater challenges ahead.

3. The Strength of the Young is in God, Not in Human Armor (1 Samuel 17:38-39)

"Then Saul dressed David in his own tunic. He put a coat of armor on him and a bronze helmet on his head... David tried to walk in them, but he was not used to them. 'I cannot go in these,' he said to Saul, 'because I am not used to them.' So he took them off." David, with wisdom beyond his years, rejected Saul's heavy, unfamiliar armor. He understood that his strength was not to be found in human means, conventional warfare, or imitating others. Spirit-filled young people do not need to mimic worldly methods or rely on carnal strength. Their true power lies in their dependence on God, not on man-made protection or strategies.

4. The Name of the Lord is the Young Man's True Weapon (1 Samuel 17:45)

"David said to the Philistine, 'You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied.'" Here, David declares his true weapon: not a sword or spear, but the name of the Lord Almighty! His confidence was not in his sling or stone, but in God's power and authority. For young people today, facing giants of peer pressure, academic stress, identity struggles, or moral compromise, the name of the Lord is their ultimate weapon, a source of power far superior to any worldly strength.

5. The Victory of the Faithful Young Man Glorifies God Among the Nations (1 Samuel 17:46)

"This day the Lord will deliver you into my hands, and I will strike you down and cut off your head... and the whole world will know that there is a God in Israel." David's vision extended beyond personal victory. He understood that his triumph would be a testament to God's existence and power, not just for Israel, but for "all the earth." When young people overcome challenges by the power of God, their victories become powerful testimonies, exalting the name of the Lord publicly and demonstrating His reality to a watching world.

6. The Young Man's Zeal Reveals His Mature Faith (1 Samuel 17:26)

"David asked the men standing near him, 'What will be done for the man who kills this Philistine and removes this disgrace from Israel? Who is this uncircumcised Philistine that he should defy the armies of the living God?'" David's indignation was not born of youthful bravado but of a deep reverence for God and His people. His zeal revealed a mature faith, a holy anger that the armies of the living God were being defied. This passion for God's honor is a hallmark of a young heart fully devoted to the Lord.

7. God Uses Youth to Confound the Strong (1 Samuel 17:50)

"So David prevailed over the Philistine with a sling and with a stone, and struck the Philistine and killed him. There was no sword in the hand of David." The outcome was undeniable: the young shepherd, with no sword in his hand, defeated the armed giant. This victory was clear evidence that God delights in using unlikely instruments – the young, the weak, the unequipped in human terms – to accomplish His mighty purposes. He uses them to confound the strong, to demonstrate that true power belongs to Him alone.

The Strength of Youth: Young People Facing Warriors (1 Samuel 17:33)

Conclusion:

Beloved young people, and indeed all of us, let the story of David and Goliath resound in our hearts today. Your youth is not a limitation in God's eyes, but an opportunity for Him to display His power through you.

Do not be discouraged by human skepticism.

Draw courage from your past victories, knowing God is preparing you.
Reject worldly armor and rely on God's strength alone.
Wield the name of the Lord as your true weapon.
Live in such a way that your victories glorify God among all people.
Let your zeal for God reveal your mature faith.
And remember, God delights in using the young to confound the strong.

Preaching on God is Good (Psalm 100:5)

May 20, 2025 Sermons

God is Good (Psalm 100:5)

His inherent goodness. Psalm 100:5 declares with joyful certainty, "For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations." This simple yet profound statement is a wellspring of hope, comfort, and unwavering trust. Let us delve into the manifold ways in which the goodness of God is revealed in Scripture.

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"For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations." This verse serves as our anchor, reminding us that God's goodness is not a fleeting attribute but an eternal and unchanging aspect of His very being. His love flows from this goodness, and His faithfulness is its steadfast companion throughout all time.

1. God is good and that is His character (Exodus 34:6)

"And he passed in front of Moses, proclaiming, 'The Lord, the Lord, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness.'" In this powerful self-revelation to Moses, God declares His essential nature. He is not merely good in His actions; goodness is woven into the very fabric of His being. He is compassionate, gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in love and faithfulness. These are not just things He does, but who He is. His goodness is intrinsic and foundational to all that He is and all that He does.

2. God is good and manifests himself in mercy (Psalm 86:5)

"You, Lord, are forgiving and good, abounding in love to all who call on you." Psalm 86:5 beautifully connects God's goodness with His mercy. He is forgiving, readily pardoning those who turn to Him. His goodness is actively expressed in His care for us and His responsiveness to those who seek Him in prayer. He doesn't turn a deaf ear to our cries but extends His merciful hand because He is inherently good.

3. God is good and constant, even in trials (Romans 8:28)

"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." Even in the midst of difficulties and trials, Romans 8:28 assures us of God's constant goodness. He doesn't promise us a life free from hardship, but He does promise to work all things together for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose. This is an act of His profound goodness, turning even what seems negative into something that ultimately benefits us and aligns with His plan.

4. God is good and leads us to repentance (Romans 2:4)

"Or do you show contempt for the riches of his kindness, forbearance, and patience, not realizing that God’s kindness is intended to lead you to repentance?" Romans 2:4 highlights the transformative power of God's goodness. His kindness, forbearance, and patience are not meant to be taken for granted but are intended to draw us towards repentance. It is His goodness that melts our hardened hearts and provides the opportunity for us to turn away from sin and towards Him.

5. God's goodness is renewed every day (Lamentations 3:22-23)

"Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness." In the midst of profound sorrow and lament, the prophet Jeremiah clings to the enduring goodness of God. His compassions never fail; they are renewed every morning. This daily renewal of His care and love is a testament to His constant and unwavering goodness. We can trust that each new day brings fresh manifestations of His kindness towards us.

6. God is good and a refuge for those who trust in Him (Nahum 1:7)

"The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him," Nahum 1:7 offers a comforting image of God's goodness as a safe haven. In times of trouble and distress, He is a refuge for those who place their trust in Him. His goodness provides protection, security, and sustenance for all who run to Him. He cares deeply for those who rely on His benevolent nature.

7. God's goodness must be proclaimed (Psalm 107:1-2)

"Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever. Let the redeemed of the Lord tell their story—those he redeemed from the hand of the foe," Psalm 107:1-2 issues a clear call to action. Those who have experienced the goodness of the Lord are compelled to give thanks and to proclaim His goodness to others. Our personal encounters with His love and mercy become powerful testimonies that point others to the source of all goodness.

Conclusion:

The truth that "God is good" is not just a theological statement; it is the very foundation of our faith and our hope. His goodness is His character, manifested in His boundless mercy, constant even in trials, leading us to repentance, renewed daily, a refuge in times of trouble, and a truth that compels us to proclaim it to the world.

Therefore, let us continually give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! Let us trust in His goodness in all circumstances, allow His goodness to lead us to deeper repentance, and boldly share the story of His goodness with everyone we encounter. For the Lord is good, and His love endures forever! Amen.