God uses those of all ages

We all know that I Timothy 4:12 says, "Let no one despise your youth, but be an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit,in faith, in purity."

This verse is generally used to encourage young people to be bold for Christ and to be an example. It's a good verse to encourage teenagers to be a witness for Christ despite their youth.

However, a recent "real life thing" made me realize this verse can apply in other situations where there is quite an age gap between two (or more) Believers. There might come a time when a younger person has wisdom to share with an older person. It would be a normal reaction for the older person to be quite prideful of this little whippersnapper who thinks he or she knows everything. What do you do when someone much younger rebukes you or comes alongside you and says, "Look, I see you are struggling with this sin. I'd like you to know I'm praying for you and I'd like to help you if you'll let me."

You could let Mr. Pride rear his ugly head....

"Who do you think you are?"
 "You are younger than me by a good twenty years."
   "I've been on this planet a lot longer than you have."
    "Respect your elders!"

Or you could think of our amazing, all-powerful God who uses people of all ages to help us in our walk, our journey of faith. The Lord loves a humble, teachable spirit. Sometimes age does not equal spiritual maturity. May we let our brothers and sisters in Christ help us along our journey no matter their age!


For His glory alone,
genesis