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The Youth to Be Burden Bearers
“I have written unto you, young men, because ye are strong, and
the word of God abideth in you, and ye have overcome the wicked
one.”
1 John 2:14
.
In order that the work may go forward in all its branches, God
calls for youthful vigor, zeal, and courage. He has chosen the youth
to aid in the advancement of His cause. To plan with clear mind
and execute with courageous hand demands fresh, uncrippled ener-
gies. Young men and women are invited to give God the strength
of their youth, that through the exercise of their powers, through
keen thought and vigorous action, they may bring glory to Him and
salvation to their fellow men.
In view of their high calling, the youth among us should not
seek for amusement, or live for selfish gratification. The salvation
of souls is to be the motive that inspires them to action. In their
God-given strength they are to rise above every enslaving, debasing
habit. They are to ponder well the paths of their feet, remembering
that where they lead the way, others will follow. No one lives to
himself; all exert an influence for good or for evil. Because of this,
the apostle exhorts young men to be sober-minded. How can they
be otherwise when they remember that they are to be co-workers
with Christ, partakers with Him of His self-denial and sacrifice, His
forbearance and gracious benevolence?
To the youth of today, as surely as to Timothy, are spoken the
words, “Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that
needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.” “Flee
also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace.” 2
[536]
1 Timothy 2:15, 22
. “Be thou an example of the believers, in word,
in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.”
1 Timothy
4:12
.
The burden bearers among us are falling in death. Many of
those who have been foremost in carrying out the reforms instituted
by us as a people are now past the meridian of life and are declin-
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