Winning Family

Let Christ Reign In You

Tonia O. Alabi

Let no one despise your youth but set an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith and in purity.
- 1 Timothy 4: 1-2

This generation of youth and their conduct have posed to be a source of worry for many of the older generations. As much as the world is advancing, one cannot really see the benefit on the youth of our time, most of them are losing value for life. The measure of Character, which is key to the value of a person’s personality and prosperity is fast been eroded.

Psychologists may say this is the impact of the ecosystem in which they find themselves. The harsh economy versus bad governments and insensitive leaders can be said to be the result of the insensitivity we see in our youth today. The environment is so harsh, our children no longer have their life as youth all they do is work, work and work. Leisure is barely experienced. The tired youth feels deprived and the word “Depression” is the song of the season. This word did not exist in the dictionary of the olden days African youth.

In the past, it was fun to be in your 20s. You graduate from school and had an uncle to fix you up for a vacation job or get you a job, which you enjoy doing, and your time was respected.  You close from work and had time to mingle to mingle with your peers. The reverse is the case now. You graduate and are not sure of a job, even where the job is available the pay is just enough to transport you to and from work.

You are used like a slave at work by an employer who feels you should be happy you have a job. You rarely have time for a good night sleep because you get home so late either because of traffic or lack of transportation. At times, you may have to wait for cheaper transport or a ride with a colleague, which could cause you to leave work later than normal, all because your salary is unable to take you home.

To you Youth, I say you have to rather stand strong rather than become insensitive. Romans 15: 13 says, “May the God of Hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”

Hope in Christ strengthens us during travails. You have to continue to be of good conduct, developing and maintaining excellent character traits that become your brand, prosper your personality and then, you succeed despite all odds of life.

Let me share with you a content of a religious programme I watched recently. The theme of the programme was based on how to protect yourself under the role of a manipulative leader.

 The speaker highlighted the following:

i. Self-Protection: Here she quoted the book of Psalms. 40: 4 says,” Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, who does not look to the proud, to those who turn aside to false gods.”
 
The tendency to follow any form of religion that preaches prosperity will be for one who is not disciplined or strong in faith. You may become easily vulnerable, be alert, stay awake and protect yourself.

Sunday is not a day of rest. It is a day of worship especially among true Christ followers. The Word is present and the Eucharist is yours for take. Never miss a Mass. Rest could be taken after Mass. You close from work Let God come first in your options.

 
Life may not seem meaningful now but when you trust in your maker, one who gave up His son that you may have life, life in abundance, then hope for a better future; one that is nearer than you may know.

As we celebrate the feast of Christ our King, I say trust in God the Almighty, the great hope for life, our sustainer and you will rise again and shine in the light of Christ. You will win as we all are winners in Christ.