Page 88 - A Call to Stand Apart (2002)

Basic HTML Version

84
A Call to Stand Apart
world does not so much need persons of great intellect as of great
character. The world needs young men and young women whose
talents are controlled by consistent principles
What, then, is essential education for this time? True education
embraces physical, mental, and moral training that develops all your
abilities to their highest potential so you can serve God and work
to benefit humanity. To seek for fame and recognition will separate
you from the Spirit of God, depriving you of that grace which would
make your work for Christ effective
Students who exalt the sciences above the God of science will
be ignorant, even though they think they are brilliant. If you cannot
afford time to pray, cannot take time to communicate with God and
reflect on the Source of wisdom, your learning will be wasted
God’s career choice for us is determined by our capabilities.
Not everyone has the same ability. Regardless of your academic
potential, each of you should aim just as high as uniting yourself
with divine power allows you to reach
Love and loyalty to Jesus are the spring of all real service. When
your heart is touched by Christ’s love, you will want to work for
Him. Look for ways to serve the poor, the victimized, and the
[101]
oppressed. Like any other work, skill comes as you actually become
involved in ministry and service to the disadavantaged. Without
actual involvement and exposure to their needs, even well-meaning
efforts can have disastrous results. After all, you learn to swim in
the water, not on land!
The church is organized for service, and in a life of service for
Jesus connection with the church is one of the first steps. Loyalty to
Christ demands responsibly carrying out church duties. This is an
important part of your education, and in a church that reflects Jesus’
life it will lead directly to helping a world in pain.
There are many ways youth can find opportunities for service
to others. Organize yourselves into small groups and look for ways
to serve the community. Working together will give you a sense
of unity, acceptance, and encouragement. Parents and teachers can
be your mentors, and you will benefit from the wisdom of their
experience.
Learn about others’ needs! That knowledge kindles empathy,
which is the basis for effective ministry. As you try to learn about