Samuel is an example of an active young person in the church. Many times, as teenagers, we are tempted to think that we don’t make a difference in the religious community and that, among so many educated and experienced people, there is no place for us. By believing in this great lie, we start putting God’s matters in second place, leaving room in our hearts for worldly things. These mistaken conclusions lead us to ignore the fact that even before we were formed, when we were still in our mother’s womb, He already knew us and nurtured the purpose of using us in His service. With this vision, God makes a very interesting statement about Jeremiah. He says: “Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you. Before you were born, I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations” (Jeremiah 1:5).
With this beautiful affirmation, the whole scenario changes. God shows that we were chosen to work for His cause. A living example of this is the story of young Samuel, who was dedicated to God from his mother’s womb and became a great leader and helper of Israel amid difficulties.
Regarding his activities in the temple, it is said: It was not customary for the Levites to enter upon their peculiar services until they were twenty-five years of age, but Samuel had been an exception to this rule. Every year saw more important trusts committed to him; and while he was yet a child, a linen ephod was placed upon him as a token of his
consecration to the work of the sanctuary. Young as he was when brought to minister in the tabernacle, Samuel had even then duties to perform in the service of God, according to his capacity. These were at first very humble, and not always pleasant; but they were performed to the best of his ability, and with a willing heart. His religion was carried into every duty of life. He regarded himself as God’s servant, and his work as God’s work. His efforts were accepted, because they were prompted by love to God and a sincere desire to do His will. It was thus that: Samuel became a co-worker with the Lord of heaven and earth. And God fitted him to accomplish a great work for Israel Patriarchs and Prophets, p. 573.
In contrast to Samuel’s diligent and consistent life, we highlight the human tendency to rush and do things carelessly. This reality is even more pronounced when talking about teenagers. Besides the strong tendency to simplify tasks, most teenagers lack the patience needed to carry out their duties properly.
For this reason, when invited to take on a role in the church, be cautious and, just like Samuel, who was supervised by the priest Eli when performing activities in the temple, make sure to do everything to the best of your ability under the guidance of more experienced members.
Another important point to consider is the reconciliation of adolescent ideas with biblical guidance. Not everyone will always agree with a particular idea, and it’s certain that no two people are identical in all aspects. That’s why it’s crucial to always seek the collective good (Psalms 133:1-30), remembering that God’s will is much more important than our own desires.
At the same time, we must apply humility in our lives, recognizing that there are people with more knowledge than us, who are willing to teach us for our growth. God instructs us to be the light of the world and the salt of the earth (Matthew 5:13-16), and an excellent way to set an example for others is by working together for God’s cause.
WHEN OUR PARTICIPATION IN THE CHURCH IS CONSISTENT, OUR WILLINGNESS TO PRAY AND STUDY GOD’S WORD INCREASES.
In time, your friends will notice your change in focus and may also become interested in church activities. In this way, those who inherited religion from their parents but have not yet had a personal encounter with God can follow your example.
When our participation in the church is consistent, our willingness to pray and study God’s Word increases. This awakens in us a sense of involvement in church activities. From then on, teenagers will no longer feel isolated from the body but rather a part of it. Continuous involvement in activities helps us understand that this is our place in the community of faith. Jesus wants us to work for His cause, to be by our side in this decisive phase of life, and it is important to take advantage of this opportunity.
-When we consider the inspiring story of Samuel and his example of getting involved in the church, even despite the challenges, we can see his calling from childhood to becoming an exceptional leader. In the same way, we teenagers need to understand that we have been chosen by God to help in His work.
Thinking about our role as teenagers in the church is essential. We have a great responsibility that requires total commitment. Although adolescence is often marked by haste and impatience, serving in the church demands dedication and patience. We understand that service in the church cannot be done carelessly, but with a heart fully committed, seeking God’s honor and glory.
Participating in the church can be challenging. Accepting divergent ideas and working toward collective requires humility goals and determination. Acknowledging that others have more knowledge is not a sign of humiliation but of wisdom, as doing tasks in the church with excellence means learning from those with more experience and broader knowledge.
Considering all that has been discussed, it is evident that there is ample space for teenagers in the context of the church.
By assuming our mission, as Samuel did, the light we radiate will be the fruit of our commitment to God’s cause. Our positive influence will not only transform our friends and spark interest in religious activities but also inspire other teenagers to have a genuine encounter with God.
However, we often fail to fully realize that we are part of the body of Christ. Therefore, by getting involved in church activities and feeling a sense of belonging and usefulness, by calling on a power beyond and above us to face various needs, the faculties of the soul will be clothed with God’s power, and we will naturally fulfill His will.
Jesus desires to see us working for His cause, dedicating this unique moment in our lives.
Discovering and using our talents to share the gospel is a response to God’s call. Do you want to participate in this experience? Do you want to share and testify about how beneficial it is to belong to the body of Christ? If so, may God bless you.
