We enjoyed praise and worship before celebrating our graduates. Pastor shared 1 Timothy 4:12 telling the graduates (and all of us) to no think less of being young but to set an example as a leader.
Our youth pastor shared encouragement saying how he has observed them go through life change after salvation. They have shown growth in caring, serving, daily commitment, and daily worship. He reminded them that maturing spiritually is a continual, life-long process. He advised them the way to succeed in ministry is to say yes to God each morning.
The graduates, and all of us, were encouraged to partnership in the gospel. Philippians 1:3-6, 9.
Pastor also shared some messages on Life Hacks. He noted how different the last 20 years has been for these youth who grew from backpack to briefcase to laptop. Most of them were only infants when the terrorist attacks occurred on 9/11/2001. Most don’t recall the days of cassette tapes and CDs (much less vinyl). They have grown up with mp3s and even more with cell phones and digital devices. It has probably been years since they have used text books, rather than computers, to do research.
Pastor gave them these three directives:
1. Ask to join God in His plans rather than asking God to join you. Jeremiah 29:11. Fear the Lord and turn from evil. Proverbs 3:7.
2. Keep growing; remain in God and bear fruit. John 15:5. Grow in generosity and wisdom. Proverbs 3:12-16. Grow as a person and later as a spouse and a parent.
3. Be Strong and Courageous. Change the world. Lead people to Jesus.
I thought this might be a good song for graduates … and all of us.
A Verse for Today1 Timothy 4:12 (NIV)
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.
Lord - thank you for reminding me to start each morning by saying "Yes" to Your Will for my life!
