The Passion and the Purpose #2
A brief encouragement:
Young man, have you not seen the world you live in? Where have you been all your years? Your enemies are cunning and your very heart they surely desire. Their weapons are sharp and dangerous, honed for your destruction. Take heart, stand firm, lift your head and look upon the Lord your God. You must take action, build your life upon the Rock and He will never fail you. Though your death is sure, for all men die, your life is not lost for you are found in Christ. Take heart, take courage.
I hope this post finds you well. For this edition of the Passion and the Purpose I wanted to raise awareness of the world around us. I often see a complete lack of intentionality in young men these days. As Christians, we believe that there is a huge war about us that rages at all times. We must be actively preparing for temptations and trials at a moment's notice. This requires a level of mental and spiritual sharpness to recognize and engage with any situation that may come. I want to encourage us that we must always be active and ready, training for the day when we will have to put to the test what we have learned. So, with joy and hope in Christ, let us march forth and be ready for anything.
This is so encouraging, Jake. I believe that this is important even for those of us who are older perhaps burdened with the things of life that tempt us to rely on anything but God. Last night, I was reminded of what Peter said after Jesus asked them if they were going to leave Him as well. Peter’s response is priceless, “LORD, to whom shall we go away? Words of life eternal you have. And as for us, we have believed and still believe and have come to know and still know experientially that you are the Holy One of God” (Jn 6,68-69 Wuest). The others had “went away to the things they had left, and no longer with Him were they ordering their manner of life” (Jn 6,66b Wuest).
Your instruction and encouragement is solid for all to be on guard. For this world seeks to distract, despair, and destroy the human heart. What wisdom you display for a young man. Praise the LORD for He has raised up a standard among men to show the way to the next generation.