APRIL
Listen, my sons, to a father’s discipline, and pay attention so that you may gain understanding, for I am giving you good instruction.
Don’t abandon my teaching.
When I was a son with my father, tender and precious to my mother, he taught me and said:
“Your heart must hold on to my words.
Keep my commands and live. Get wisdom, get understanding, don’t forget or turn away from the words of my mouth.
Don’t abandon wisdom, and she will watch over you;
love her, and she will guard you.
Wisdom is supreme—so get wisdom.
And whatever else you get, get understanding.
Cherish her, and she will exalt you, if you embrace her, she will honor you.
She will place a garland of grace on your head;, she will give you a crown of beauty.” (Proverbs 4:1–9)
Forgiveness Is Essential for Christians
“For if you forgive people their wrongdoing, your heavenly Father will forgive you as well. But if you don’t forgive people, your Father will not forgive your wrongdoing.” —Matthew 6:14–15
Forgiveness is an essential part of a Christian’s life. Without forgiveness there would be no Christians, because a Christian is a person whose sins have been forgiven by God through the acceptance of Jesus Christ. And, according to Matthew 6:14–15, we are only forgiven of our sins if we forgive others. Also Christians should forgive others not only to be forgiven, but because we were forgiven we should want to forgive others. It is like gifts at Christmas—not only do you receive gifts, you also give gifts to others. So, Christians should treat forgiveness like presents, not only receiving but also giving forgiveness. Forgiving others is the right thing to do, and when you do forgive there will be a great peace with you. Just like watching friends or family open the presents you gave them and seeing the joy on their faces, you will have joy in their reactions. But this verse also tells us that if we do not forgive others of their wrongdoings, then God will not forgive us of our wrongdoing. In other words, if we do not give any gifts, then we will not receive any gifts. Forgiving others is a difficult but necessary part of a Christian’s life. Without forgiveness, a Christian cannot live his life the way God meant him to.
Michael Lowe: 15, Pageland, SC
Wolf Pond Baptist Church and South Pointe Christian School, Pageland, SC
“Grace be with all who have undying love for our Lord Jesus Christ.” —Ephesians 6:24
Many times I’ve found that I have no motivation to do much of anything. Sometimes I will wake up in the morning and I just don’t want to go to school or do anything else. Don’t get me wrong. I like school, and I know that we all learn and grow there and get to spend time with friends. But, when days like this come, I will just lie in my bed and not get up because I feel like there is no point. I’m certain that I am not the only teen boy to ever feel this way. I went on a school retreat about three years ago and while sitting around a bonfire one night, one of my friends started talking. He was going on about the fire and I found myself totally confused. I had no idea where he was going with this conversation. But I listened to what he said, and I started to understand. He said that sometimes we feel like we are in this place where there is no point to anything in our lives. We think to ourselves, What is the point? That can lead to some pretty dangerous thoughts. We find that not only have we lost touch with what we need to do, but in times like that we can lose touch with Jesus too. We lose touch with Him, our Savior. We know that idle time is the devil’s workshop, so it is important that we, particularly teens, keep our hearts and minds focused on what God wants us to do with every day.
Daniel Baehr: 17, Manassas, VA
Emmanuel Baptist Church Youth Group and Emmanuel Christian School, Manassas, VA
“Grace be with all who have undying love for our Lord Jesus Christ.” —Ephesians 6:24
I’m sure a lot of people have experienced going on a retreat or something similar and being on a big spiritual high: “Oh, my gosh, I love Jesus!” and all that stuff. Then we get back home and have a retreat letdown, because we’re back to our normal environment and the same boring routine. What we need to do is find a way to stay on that spiritual high. We cannot ride on another’s high: we need to allow the Lord to show us how to live out His grace and victory without getting bored! Now the connection to the fire is this: What is it that keeps a fire burning? Wood! Wood is the fuel that keeps the fire burning. We need to find the fuel in our Christian lives to keep the fire going, so that we can keep burning for God. I’m not going to lie; I have not always found my fuel in every situation, and many I know struggle with finding theirs for everything that comes up in their lives. But we need to be the generation that finds the fuel that God has for us so that we can be balanced in our Christian life. To do that we need to be on guard, and we need to be willing to get into the Bible, and to also be willing to get up and get going! Are you lying around just waiting for something to fuel your life? Remember that God’s Word, the Bible, offers us what we need to get us fueled for God.
Daniel Baehr: 17, Manassas, VA
Emmanuel Baptist Church Youth Group and Emmanuel Christian School, Manassas, VA
“In God whose word I praise, in the Lord, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I will not fear. What can man do to me?” —Psalm 56:10–11
As the Christian men we aspire to be, we are expected to live a life of courage. After all, faith in Christ is not easy. It is by far the easier road to be afraid and to hide behind those things that we think will protect us. Pride in Christ is no longer considered a good attribute in our culture today. These two verses in today’s devotional can be considered a battle cry of fearless, proud Christian men. It is an encouragement to praise God in all circumstances. It describes a man who takes pride in God with bold confidence, even in the face of negative consequences. It can also be a challenge to us in our daily walks as Christians. Are you prepared to trust God in all situations? Will you take pride in God no matter who is around you or who is trying to get you to move away from what you know to be right? Are you willing to be fearless for the cause of Christ?
Jackson Reese: 18, Pageland, SC
South Pointe Fellowship and South Pointe Christian School, Pageland, SC
“We know that all things work together for the good of those who love God: those who are called according to His purpose.” —Romans 8:28
Stuff happens in life that doesn’t go according to our plan, like not getting into the college you were hoping for or not making the basketball team. Whatever the situation, we all come to the same conclusion in the end. Life isn’t fair! But let me ask you this question: Whose plan was it to begin with? Your plan, or God’s (see Jeremiah 29:11–14)? God plants a seed that encourages us to work toward goals and attain skills that will help us to achieve them. We may not see things the same way God does. God has a time and place for everything, and each has a significant purpose that will affect not only us but everyone we come in contact with. One summer day riding home from the store on our scooters, my friends and I were holding ice cold Slushies in our hands. We decided to take a different route home than usual. I pointed out a shaded area and suggested we stay there and relax. About twenty minutes later, we continued our trip home. The chapel across the street was having an Ultimate Frisbee game, and we were invited to join. When we turned them down, one of the youth leaders, again, ran to ask us to join them. This time we did. They reached out to us and made us welcome. I still attend the youth group functions and have made several new friends there. When I look back on this, I realize God was in control. There was a purpose for us taking a different route home that day. After that I began to give everything to God. I let Him control every aspect of my life. Are you willing to do the same?
Nicholas Berger: 15, Fairchild Air Force Base, Airway Heights, WA
Airway Heights Baptist Church, Airway Heights, WA; Homeschooled
“Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying: Who should I send? Who will go for Us? I said: Here I am. Send me.” —Isaiah 6:8
Imagine this, you’re sitting in class and you are tuned in to what your teacher is talking about. She pulls out a prize you really want, like a new iPhone or iPad, and she asks, “Does anyone want to volunteer?” I can almost guarantee that you will volunteer! But wait, how many of us will do that same thing when God calls a volunteer for His service? The rewards for doing God’s will are things that will last for all eternity, not just until the next new electronic item arrives on the market. When God calls us to do something for His kingdom on the earth, would you speak up and say, “I’ll do it, Father, choose me!” It does not matter when, or where, or what you’re doing at the time! You just need to do it for His glory. Just like Isaiah, “Here I am. Send me.” God loves it when His own children volunteer for Him. He loves using us for His plan! So, when God needs a volunteer, how about we just go ahead and do it to bring Him glory?
Kord Offenbacker: 16, Springdale, AR
Cross Church Springdale Campus and Shiloh Christian School, Springdale, AR
“For He will conceal me in His shelter in the day of adversity; He will hide me under the cover of His tent; He will set me high on a rock.” —Psalm 27:5
There will always be adversity in life, no matter where you go there will be trouble. But when there is trouble, you should look to God. He will get you on the right path. Job 42:11 tells us, “All his brothers, sisters, and former acquaintances came to his house and dined with him in his house. They sympathized with him and comforted him concerning all the adversity the Lord had brought on him.” The story of Job is a good example of adversity, because Job was tested by God and was in trouble, but he stayed faithful to God and got back more than he had before. Ecclesiastes 7:14 says, “In the day of prosperity be joyful, but in the day of adversity, consider: God has made the one as well as the other, so that man cannot discover anything that will come after him.” When trouble comes, keep trusting in the Lord. He will help you through and you will be better than when you were when the trouble came. “A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a difficult time” (Proverbs 17:17). You will be closer to God as well as people after trouble. Your bonds with friends will be stronger, and you will be a better friend because of it.
Nolan Martin: 16, Marshville, NC
Mount Moriah Baptist Church, Marshville, NC; South Pointe Christian School, Pageland, SC
“Your word is a lamp for my feet and a light on my path.” —Psalm 119:105
Moving can be scary! One summer my family moved from south of Atlanta, Georgia, to Missouri. One of the hardest things about moving is starting at a new school. On the first day of school, I got up early, put on my new clothes and Nikes, ate a good breakfast, and my mom took my picture before leaving for school like she always does on the first day of school, regardless of the weather. That was the easy part of the day. Then, I entered the school and went to my first hour class, or what I thought was my first hour class. After not hearing my name called on the classroom role, my teacher looked at my schedule and told me to go to the A gym. She asked me if I knew where the gyms were located. I had absolutely no clue! She then gave directions that didn’t make any sense (don’t you hate it when that happens?). So when I walked out of the classroom, I was on my own. I wandered around the school and finally found the gyms. I was so relieved. But, of course, I walked into the wrong gym. Someone finally told me I needed to go to the gym next door. After arriving in the correct gym, I sat down not knowing anyone and feeling pretty embarrassed. This story can sometimes be compared to life. People who don’t know God and don’t read the Bible can wander through life, not knowing where to go or what to do. As Christians, the Bible should be the guide to light our paths. We should apply the truths of God’s Word. He tells us how to live in this life, and we should be trying our best to live like Christ.
Micah Perstrope: 13, St. Peters, MO
First Baptist Church of St. Charles, St. Charles, MO; Dubray Middle School, St. Peters, MO
“For I am persuaded that not even death or life, angels or rulers, things present or things to come, hostile powers, height or depth, or any other created thing will have the power to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord!” —Romans 8:38–39
Now before you start thinking, Oh, yeah, I’ve heard this so many times, and I know that God loves me, let me ask you to just hear my story. Hopefully it will encourage you or give you a new perspective on God’s love. A few years ago I was struggling with depression. It felt to me like I was loved by no one. While this was totally not true, I believed the lies I was fed. One night after some events, God brought me to my knees crying. I couldn’t understand how He could love me. Although none of us can ever fully realize the amount of love God has for us, I caught just a glimpse of it that night. It was enough to break down the walls I had built up. Just sit and think, the Creator of the galaxies, mountain ranges, humans, and DNA coding loves me so much that He sent His only Son to die for me—a person who continually violates His rules and dishonors Him. That’s crazy! I find it hard to love the people that even slightly annoy me, let alone someone who would disobey, dishonor, and not listen to me countless times. One of my favorite worship songs says, “Your love never fails, it never gives up, it never runs out on me.” We can’t comprehend this kind of love! It’s a love no human could possibly ever express apart from knowing God. Realizing a little of how much God loves you can totally change your life! How awesome it is to serve a God whose love will never fail and who never gives up on us, no matter what we have done or will do! Awesome!
Austin Canfield: 18, Tulsa, OK
Evergreen Baptist Church, Bixby, OK; Homeschooled
“Jesus said to her, ‘I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in Me, even if he dies, will live.’” —John 11:25
Death is always a sad thing to experience, but it is something that we must deal with during our lives. We will have friends, relatives, and acquaintances all pass away from old age, sickness, and accidents. Yet, in these trying times, we must remain focused on the Lord to provide comfort and realize that everything has a purpose to bring glory to God. Oftentimes, it helps to seek out those that have successfully overcome this trial and look to them for guidance. It is much easier to deal with something with the help of another and to lean on an understanding shoulder. However, death also allows for an opportunity to share the message of Christ and how we do not have to fear death on this earth due to His sacrifice. In troubling situations, most people seek answers and are open to any relief. As Christians, we must take advantage of the chance to bring security to their lives with the comforting power of our Lord. No earthly pleasure can match God’s ability to put man’s mind at ease and heart to rest. Search for those who have recently dealt with death in their lives and share the all-loving character of the Lord, so that they might find peace during the storm.
Jonathan Dismukes: 17, Mobile, AL
Redeemer Fellowship Church and Cottage Hill Christian Academy, Mobile, AL
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding; think about Him in all your ways, and He will guide you on the right paths.” —Proverbs 3:5–6
Do you trust God? It’s not always easy, but you need to do it so God can lead you. Proverbs 3:5–6 says to trust in God, and He will lead you in the right path. God’s ways are the best ways, and He won’t lead you to where you don’t need to be. Psalm 56:4 says “In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I will not fear. What can man do to me?” This means if you trust in God, you shouldn’t fear what man could do to you. If you trust in God, it doesn’t matter what people say, think, or do to you. God will take care of you if you trust in Him. Second Kings 18:5 says “Hezekiah trusted in the Lord God of Israel; not one of the kings of Judah was like him, either before him or after him.” Hezekiah trusted in God and he was the greatest ruler of his time. God made Hezekiah a great king because he trusted in Him. If you trust in God, you can do great things. Psalm 31:6 says, “I hate those who are devoted to worthless idols, but I trust in the Lord.” You shouldn’t put your trust into false idols like money and possessions. You should put all your trust in God. Don’t worry about anything else, just trust in God and you will be fine. As Psalm 19:7 says, “The instruction of the Lord is perfect, renewing one’s life; the testimony of the Lord is trustworthy, making the inexperienced wise.”
Nolan Martin: 16, Marshville, NC
Mount Moriah Baptist Church, Marshville, NC; South Pointe Christian School, Pageland, SC
“But God proves His own love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us!” —Romans 5:8
The Bible tells us that everyone sins and falls short of God’s standard. Although we all do sin, God’s grace and love is great enough that He forgives us when we confess and repent. But, this does not mean that we can just go around all day and every day sinning as much as we want saying, “It’s OK because God will forgive me anyway.” It doesn’t work that way. We need to know the truth and practice it. There are some vital steps that we must take when asking for forgiveness. The first one is admitting it (confession). Yes, actually admitting that you sinned. I know it’s hard to do, but this is the first and most important step. Next, we have to be sincere and really want to be forgiven (repenting). Don’t just go through the motions. Once God forgives you, you will not believe the feeling you will get! You feel so clean, like a new person! But take caution and be aware so that you do not fall back into the same sin you just were forgiven for. There is an old saying that applies here: “God hates sin and loves the sinner!”
Brandon Carroll: 17, York, SC
Hillcrest Baptist Church and York Comprehensive High School, York, SC
“The Lord is my strength and my song; He has become my salvation. This is my God, and I will praise Him, my father’s God, and I will exalt Him.” —Exodus 15:2
We often limit ourselves to what we believe is the peak of our capability to take in—what our stress limit is and things that we just can’t take. In tough situations, when we feel as if our strength is not enough, and we feel overwhelmed and overstressed, we can always find renewed strength in God. Because we are only human, it is hard for our physical brains to comprehend God’s power. I often find myself trying to think of great things that God can do, but I know that no matter what my brain can comprehend, it is still not even close to what our Creator can actually do. When we simply sit outside and look up to the sky, we can only see so much. But beyond what we can see lies massive amounts more of God’s creation, in vastness above us that we cannot even imagine. So, in a situation when you might feel discouraged and out of energy, look to God, because He is available all the time and will aid you in ways seen and even unseen. How awesome is that?
Jacob LaValley: 16, Pageland, SC
Mount Moriah Baptist Church and South Pointe Christian School, Pageland, SC
Listen and Accept All that God Has for You
“Listen to advice and accept instruction, that you may gain wisdom in the future.” —Proverbs 19:20
It is hard to listen to counsel and to receive instruction. Today’s verse brings our parents to mind: most of us hear them, but most of us don’t actually listen. If you have godly parents, you need to understand that they are doing their best to instruct you according to God’s will. Our parents are human too, and they make mistakes. Be quick to forgive, because they are doing their best for you. What about other people in your life that impart wisdom to you? If you don’t think you have someone like that in your life, do one of two things. Look a little closer, because you could be overlooking that person God already has in your life, or start looking for someone that God may put in your life. Having a mentor is awesome. I have had many different mentors and have learned from each one. It is important to realize that no mentor, even if you think he is the godliest person alive, is perfect. They will mess up, and they might even offend you sometimes. Though mentors are awesome to have, it is Jesus who is the example you need to strive to be like. Don’t try to mimic any man, because every man is imperfect. Jesus is the #1 mentor for life, so look to Him before you look to anyone else. Take time and pray that God would put someone in your life who will model wisdom based on His truths and biblical lessons. Also, pray that God would always guide you as you look to Him as your true mentor.
Trey Suey: 16, Mt. Juliet, TN
The Fellowship at Two Rivers, Nashville, TN; New Life Academy, Mt. Juliet, TN
“Rejoice always! Pray constantly. Give thanks in everything, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” —1 Thessalonians 5:16–18
To rejoice, to pray, and to give thanks to God now, that is His will for us. Well, it sounds like we need to make those three things the most important in our life. Why shouldn’t we rejoice? God has given us another day, He has safely guided us wherever we are going, and He is always protecting us! Rejoice always! Be happy! I can’t think of anything to be unhappy about in Christ Jesus! Can you? A very wise man once reminded me that the Bible says, “You do not have because you do not ask” (James 4:2). I am learning to ask God to meet my needs. So, you can ask God for what you need in prayer as you spend time with Him! Seek God in your prayer life, and I can guarantee you that God will give you the desires of your heart, according to His perfect will. It is also important to be thankful, even when things just aren’t the way you think they are supposed to be. It’s hard when things aren’t the way we would like; when something is wrong in life it often freaks us out. But wait, didn’t God wake us up this morning? Don’t we have a family or some friends to be around? Don’t we have the Savior of the world in our hearts if we are saved? Well, those three things are definitely things to be thankful for. Even when things aren’t right, we can still trust and thank God. Rejoice always, pray no matter what, and give thanks to the One who gave us eternal life and gives us all things to be thankful for!
Kord Offenbacker: 16, Springdale, AR
Cross Church Springdale Campus and Shiloh Christian School, Springdale, AR
“And whatever you do . . . do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus.” —Colossians 3:17
Laziness is a sin and all too common. Many have defeated this sin and become hard workers. Laziness can be overcome by working for God rather than man. Paul said, “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.” If we work in our daily lives like we would for a sovereign God, then our laziness will subside. Christians need to study the ant, which, “without leader, administrator, or ruler, it prepares its provisions in summer; it gathers its food during harvest” (Proverbs 6:7–8). The ant hardly ever stops for a break, but works night and day with minimal sleep. Ants usually live for about 45–60 days, and almost that whole time is spent working. The queen ant lays all the eggs and the worker ants forage and defend her and her eggs. Even at night, these tiny creatures move the eggs and larvae deep inside the ant nest to protect them. Once daylight comes, they move the eggs to the top so that the larvae can absorb the sun’s heat. You can see why we are instructed to watch these amazing creatures! Humans cannot go without sleep, so God has given us time for both work and sleep. Man struggles with hard work because of sin, which is the root of laziness. If laziness is a problem, ask God to help you to work hard so that He will get all the glory.
Luke Abendroth: 16, Lancaster, MA
Bethlehem Bible Church and Bethlehem Bible Church Homeschool Co-op, West Boylston, MA
“So if anyone purifies himself from anything dishonorable, he will be a special instrument, set apart, useful to the Master, prepared for every good work.” —2 Timothy 2:21
I’ve always wanted to be used by God. A lot of Christian teens talk about being used to serve, and preachers use it as a point of emphasis during sermons. The idea of the God of the universe using me to do His work is amazing. One thing, though, that many people forget to tell us is how hard it is to be set apart for God’s calling on our lives. In high school I’m always surrounded with the temptations to live like the world. No one wants to be out-of-the-loop or made fun of. Many times I’ve gotten the “Jesus freak” name-calling, and sometimes I’ll be the one not invited to the big party because people know my views on drinking alcohol and things like that. The only thing I can do is to pray and ask God to be with me. I know if I ask for His comfort He’ll be there for me no matter what the situation. It’s definitely a struggle to constantly stay pure in a corrupt society. I just hold true to the promises God gives us, that when we discipline ourselves and live for His glory, He will use us to fulfill His will. So my advice for anyone who feels like an outsider is to let God comfort your hurt. Take heart in the truth that God won’t leave us nor forsake us, and His Spirit dwells in us always.
Patrick Stanford: 18, Albany, GA
Sherwood Baptist Church and Sherwood Christian Academy, Albany, GA
“Come, let us shout joyfully to the Lord, shout triumphantly to the rock of our salvation! Let us enter His presence with thanksgiving; let us shout triumphantly to Him in song.” —Psalm 95:1–2
I’ve been privileged to visit several churches and, in a lot of ways, they were very different. Some had one service, some had multiple services; some were very small, and some had thousands of members. I’ve attended church services in school gyms, warehouses, the YMCA, and traditional church buildings. Some of the churches had choirs and orchestras, some had praise bands, some did hymns, and some used very contemporary praise songs. Though the styles and the buildings were all different, all the churches seemed to desire to worship the Lord. The psalm above says that worship should be exciting. The writer talks about shouting and being triumphant and says that we should be thankful. We have a great God who has done so many great things for us, and we should remember how blessed we are. Psalm 95:6 says “Come, let us worship and bow down; let us kneel before the Lord our Maker.” Worship should also humble us. We should recognize how awesome and mighty our God is. Worship is a personal as well as a corporate experience. Psalm 95:7 says, “For He is our God, and we are the people of His pasture, the sheep under His care.” God is our shepherd and we are sheep under His care, so we should rejoice and be grateful in worship. Whether we meet in a school building or a church with a steeple, the goal is to exalt our great God. We should also remember that worship doesn’t happen just on Sunday, but we should worship Him daily.
Micah Perstrope: 13, St. Peters, MO
First Baptist Church of St. Charles, St. Charles, MO; Dubray Middle School, St. Peters, MO
“Take delight in the Lord, and He will give you your heart’s desires.” —Psalm 37:4
Psalm 37:4 is well-known, but the meaning is often mistaken. The first part of the verse pretty much explains itself. It tells us to delight in the Lord by not being afraid to show the love we have for Him. Showing our love for God becomes natural with our parents, friends, fellow students, team members, coworkers, etc. To delight in the Lord, we must find our joy in Him and in His Word. Limited joy can be found in such things as sports, X-box, or dating. There is nothing wrong with these activities, but our real joy should come from getting to show Christ. A good friend of mine gave a perfect example of showing God through sports. A soccer team we played once was being really rough and used vulgar language. During the game, my friend was knocked down by one of their players and, as he fell, the player insulted him with foul language. Instead of doing what most of us would, firing back with the same type of insult, he simply got up and looked at the offender and said, “Jesus loves you.” This is a perfect example of how to show God in our daily activities. This verse also tells us that God will give us the desires of our hearts. Most people think that if there is someone you want to date and you delight in the Lord, then God will give you the opportunity to date that person. However, once you begin to delight in the Lord, you begin to think more like God, and then your desires become what God wants for you. Those are the desires God will grant you.
Dustin Brecht: 17, Lancaster, SC
Spring Hill Baptist Church, Lancaster, SC; South Pointe Christian School, Pageland, SC
“But you, man of God, run from these things, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, and gentleness.” —1 Timothy 6:11
My favorite teacher was also the hardest teacher I have ever had. He was determined to push us to our limits. He assigned a lot of homework every day and every weekend. We typically read a novel every week. Every day he assigned thirty minutes of a math program. He was a tough teacher. When we were off school for a week with bad weather, he called us and gave us homework, because he was so passionate about learning. Not only was he a passionate teacher, but he was a great Christian man. He truly pursued godliness and exemplified love to his students at my public school. I also went to church with him and his focus on Jesus was evident. He lived the example of 1 Timothy 6:11. All of us can be distracted from following God’s will. The devil throws many temptations in our lives. This verse tells us that there are things we need to run from, like false doctrine, evil actions, and the love of money (see 1 Timothy 6:3–10). The world often tells us that money and materialism are the things that matter in life: where you live, what you drive, what you wear, and where you vacation are the priorities the world concentrates on. As believers, we should run from the world’s priorities and focus on God’s priorities. Whether we attend public school, private school, or are homeschooled, we must pursue God’s teaching in His Word and seek to live it. Just as my teacher was passionate about teaching his students, we need to be passionate about learning God’s truth and living it. My teacher was a great example to me, and God wants us to be a great example to others.
Micah Perstrope: 13, St. Peters, MO
First Baptist Church of St. Charles, St. Charles, MO; Dubray Middle School, St. Peters, MO
“Finally brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable-if there is any moral excellence and if there is any praise-dwell on these things.” —Philippians 4:8
Temptation can be a hard thing to overcome, and everyone on the earth is tempted at many times in their lives. Even Jesus Himself was tempted in the Garden of Gethsemane. One good way to fight against temptation is to think about Philippians 4:8. This verse gives us six categories of things to think about: things true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, and commendable. If anything does not fall under one of these six categories, it may be something that is evil. But if anything that is part of one of these categories is right, it cannot be an evil thing. Let’s use cheating as an example. Cheating cannot be considered as any one of these six things, so you know it is bad and you should not think about it. If you only think about the things listed in this verse, you can escape the clutches of temptation. Next this verse says that if there is anything that is considered morally excellent, or anything that is worthy of praise, then do these things. Next time you are tempted, think about Philippians 4:8 and the six categories it tells us to think about.
Dustin Brecht: 17, Lancaster, SC
Spring Hill Baptist Church, Lancaster, SC; South Pointe Christian School, Pageland, SC
“Consider it a great joy, my brothers, whenever you experience various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. But endurance must do its complete work, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking nothing.” —James 1:2–4
Recently I started working out in preparation for the upcoming baseball season. We had long- and short-distance running, bench pressing, regular press, squats, pull-ups, etc. Many nights I would go home worn out and wake up sore the next morning. However, my cardiovascular endurance increased, as well as my muscular strength and endurance. Though painful, it was ultimately beneficial. James tells us that we should rejoice when we face trials, because our trials produce spiritual endurance. Our spiritual muscles grow as we face trials. In the gym and in life, we can try to avoid trials that cause pain and discomfort, but we won’t grow in endurance. James says, “Endurance must do its complete work.” Giving up before your reps are finished short-changes you, so remain faithful to finish all of your exercises to achieve the goal of strength and endurance. Spiritual trials can cause you to give up on God or get angry with God. Trials of different types make you feel alone and overwhelmed, but God wants to use the trials you are facing to make you spiritually strong and to shape you to look more like Jesus. If you need God’s wisdom as you go through the trials, James says to call on God (James 1:5). This verse tells us that God will give us the wisdom we need, and He will not criticize us for asking for His help. We will grow spiritually wiser and stronger as we call on Him.
Joel Perstrope: 15, St. Peters, MO
First Baptist Church of St. Charles, St. Charles, MO; Fort Zumwalt East High School, St. Peters, MO
“Honor your father and your mother so that you may have a long life in the land that the Lord is giving you.” —Exodus 20:12
Kids these days don’t want to obey their parents like the last generations did. Children don’t listen, so they keep making the same mistakes, and some parents don’t discipline them as they should. The Bible clearly states that children who do not obey their parents will not have a long life and may not prosper. In biblical times, children obeyed their parents. For some in history and even in some locations of the world today, children are killed for acts of disobedience! The Lord commands that all children honor their fathers and mothers. Quoting Moses Mark 7:10 says, “Honor your father and mother and whosoever speaks evil of father or mother must be put to death.” We’re pretty blessed to be living in these times where we don’t have to worry about being killed for not obeying our parents. Let’s honor our parents, which is the first commandment with a promise. Always tell the truth and never lie. Listen to your parents. We are known by our behavior. So respecting our parents is a great way to let others know that we love our parents and God. Remember that what others see is the impression they get about who we are on the inside. Behaving well influences how they think about our earthly parents and our heavenly Father!
Austin Hargett: 15, Marshville, NC
Bethel Baptist Church, Marshville, NC; South Pointe Christian School, Pageland, SC
“John came baptizing in the wilderness and preaching a baptism of repentance for the forgiveness of sins.” —Mark 1:4
When we hurt people we love with our poor choices or bad behavior, we need to humble ourselves and go to them with repentant hearts. You ask to be friends again or for the chance to regain their trust; hopefully that will reflect the mercy God has shown us. Forgiveness is a big deal. Sometimes people just won’t forgive, instead holding things against people who have done something wrong to them. No matter what the circumstance, you should always forgive someone when they wrong you, no matter how bad it hurts. To be able to forgive someone, we need to always remember how Jesus forgave our sins. When the Holy Spirit convicted your heart, you came to realize that He loved you and forgave you, and He continues to forgive you when you ask Him to. Forgiveness is most important. When we forgive it clears the air of past sins and helps us to begin to rebuild wounded relationships. Try forgiving, and be willing to ask for forgiveness. It is what God wants us to do. It blesses Him.
Austin Hargett: 15, Marshville, NC
Bethel Baptist Church, Marshville, NC; South Pointe Christian School, Pageland, SC
“No foul language is to come from your mouth, but only what is good for building up someone in need, so that it gives grace to those who hear.” —Ephesians 4:29
An innocent little girl who was made fun of at school and alienated became so sad and lonely that she saw no other option than to take her life. There are many stories of bullying like this one that take place daily. One bully was recently shot in school because of the intense hatred he evoked in another student. Yes, bullying can manifest itself in wrong and deadly actions. Words can be devastatingly painful. We know in our hearts that we would rather be attacked with “sticks and stones” than internally decimated by what others say to us. Sadly, I hear Christians in conversation with each other, and with nonbelievers, that I’m sure makes the Lord Jesus cringe. Jesus came to bind up the brokenhearted and set the captives free, and He is obviously the opponent of negative communication. Ephesians says that our words are to build others up. Wow! That messes me up, because I see a culture where sarcasm is prevalent and may be used jokingly, not meant to be taken seriously. The Bible says that if it isn’t lifting up the Lord Jesus, or lifting up others, I need to reevaluate my speech. Christians are to love our brothers and sisters in Christ, and be good representatives of Christ for those who are on the outside. I see attitudes, words, and actions in Christians that would utterly repel me if I was looking in from the outside. Not to be legalistic or to criticize because I, too, struggle, but we need to demonstrate Jesus’ love in our words, laying aside our standard conversation to build up others in Christ.
Luke Merrick: 15, Springdale, AR
Immanuel Baptist Church and Shiloh Christian School, Springdale, AR
High School Witnessing (Part 1)
“Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe everything I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” —Matthew 28:19–20
Religion can be hard to bring up in a conversation at school, especially when you are continually surrounded by different people throughout the day who continually put down God and anything related to Him. The sad thing is that we sometimes consider these people our best friends. I used to be friends with a person who told me God was angry at him, and that God wouldn’t have anything to do with him even if he prayed and asked Him for His help. I found myself just being quiet during times like these. I was scared that my friend would become angry with me if I pushed the subject any further. God told me to have the courage to tell my friend about His love and that He was always there with me, even if I felt like I was the only person there to spread the message. I later went up to my friend and explained how God loved him and that God is a forgiving God, no matter what sin had been committed. I had a strong feeling come over me, as if I had just gotten rid of a weight that had been pushing me down. I felt like God was telling me, “Well done, My good and faithful servant.” Telling others about Christ is not just something foreign missionaries are supposed to do. We are called to be messengers for God every day, everywhere; and that means in our own home, in our school, and even in the church. Are you telling the good news?
Billy Ramsey: 17, Sharon, SC
Faith Baptist Church, Clover, SC; York Comprehensive High School, York, SC
High School Witnessing (Part 2)
“Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe everything I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” —Matthew 28:19–20
Once I was willing to tell someone else about what God can do for them as a witness from my own experience, I knew that I had just conquered one of my biggest fears and that Jesus was with me every step of the way. God will always be with you in anything that uplifts His kingdom. Many lost people will try to counter a Christian witness by saying that God is a loving God who would never send somebody to hell. It was never intended by God to send anyone to hell, but He can’t let sin enter into heaven, so the lost are cast into hell (see Romans 6:23). God gave each of us a chance to have a second chance, so that we might escape hell. He loved us so much that He allowed His only Son to die for a corrupt people. The born-again children of God know how much God loves each of us, and we are to show that love to others. Our nerves may flare when we witness to a lost person in our school, but we must always remember that Jesus Christ is our strength and that He will never forsake us or leave us on our own (see Philippians 4:13). Being a witness is something we are all called to do, as Matthew 28:19–20 reminds us. We can go without going and still do the will of God right here at home!
Billy Ramsey: 17, Sharon, SC
Faith Baptist Church, Clover, SC; York Comprehensive High School, York, SC
“Take the underwear that you bought and are wearing, and go at once to the Euphrates River and hide it in a rocky crevice.” —Jeremiah 13:4
One problem with trying to get friends to go to church is that the only thing they know of church is sitting and listening to a preacher talk. One thing I have learned through my walk with God is that being a Christian goes way beyond Sunday school. Two years ago, I challenged myself to read the Bible from Genesis to Revelation, and I came upon today’s passage in Jeremiah 13:1–11. As I read it, I could not keep myself from laughing out loud because of the decision God made to use underwear in telling the story. These verses helped me realize that the Bible is more than a book of rules. The Bible has rules in it that are extremely important, but it also tells a story. When God created the Bible, His goal was not to force us to endure through these passages and hate every minute of it. He wanted to give us a resource that could excite us and tell us His plan for our lives through the events and people of the past. This book has the death of great warriors, outrageously funny stories, and extraordinary adventures that all lead to the exciting life of Jesus Christ. We have this resource and can learn from all of these stories. We live in an age where we can simply get online and search for the passages that might interest us, or we can simply pick the Bible up and start from the beginning. My prayer is that you will be inspired and not only want to read the Bible, but also to share all you are learning with those who never thought of the Bible as a source of entertainment and inspiration.
Chris Nation: 15, Gallatin, TN
The Fellowship at Two Rivers, Nashville, TN; Station Camp High School, Gallatin, TN
“Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do everything for God’s glory.” —1 Corinthians 10:31
Have you ever stopped to think about why you are doing something or whether it is right to have all the credit for your successes? I have struggled with a major pride issue for a long time. I am often tempted to think that when I do something, it is for me and I deserve the credit for the things that I do. As a teen that is moving toward a point of independence in decision-making, it is important that I understand why I do what I do. First Corinthians 10:31 has really helped me to understand this. This verse tells me that whatever I do, it should be for God’s glory, not mine. Knowing this, I should be making decisions that will lead to God being glorified. In order for this to happen, God must be recognized. If we allow people to think that our success or blessings have come from our work only, then God is left out. Instead, when someone compliments us, we should say, “Thank you, God has been good.” Glorifying God requires a conscious decision that His glory is worth more than the stoking of personal pride. We must decide whose glory is worth more to us. Once we establish whose honor and glory we value more, then we will begin to make better decisions. We must decide what the end goal is in order to make wise decisions for the journey God has mapped out for us. Once we understand that the goal in life should be to glorify God with our actions, and that God deserves the glory, then we will be well on our way to making wise decisions.
Josiah McGee: 15, Kansas City, MO
Summit Woods Baptist Church, Lees Summit, MO; Homeschooled