As a child, life was like a roller coaster, often wearing my emotions on my sleeves. When I was in a good mood, I felt like I was on a mountain top. However, when I was down, I often sucked the air out of any room I was in, preventing anyone else from having fun since I wasn’t. Unfortunately, the passion of my youth was often misdirected.
In the second chapter of Jeremiah, a word from the Lord came to Jeremiah to communicate to the nation of Israel. Beginning in verse 2, God points out the devotion the Jews had when they were younger. While the New International Version uses the word devotion, other translations choose the word passion. Just as grown ups lose that loving feeling, Christians often forget their first love, Revelation 2:4. Since this is true for many people the older they get, it’s time to have a new fusion from the Holy Spirit, to awaken the passion of our youth.
While I attended the Tentmaker’s Youth Ministry Trade School back in 1993, my trainers noticed my emotional instability. Some of my fellow youth workers also told me in private that if I could control this area, I would go far in the ministry. As I look back on this area of my life, I have become too stoic, afraid to allow the passion of my youth take over. When I examine Matthew 18:3, I need to follow Jesus’ calling, to have faith like a child. Children aren’t afraid to let the passion of their youth lead them. Therefore, don’t be ashamed to let your inner child go by praising the Lord, not men, Galatians 1:10.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 