Do you enjoy planning? Personally, I do. Keeping an organized routine is essential not only for a healthy and balanced adolescence but also for achieving success in life. Making plans motivates us to move forward. With good planning, we progress with order and decency. But many may ask: if God already has plans for us, why should we plan? It’s because the Lord desires to have a relationship with us and reveal His designs for us. Making plans is crucial, and we must surrender to God. Seeking wisdom and discernment enables us to make the best decisions. The success of any endeavor depends on our complete surrender to God’s will.
Among Solomon’s advice on the subject, this stands out: “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans” (Proverbs 16:3, NIV).
This verse exhorts us to commit our plans to the Lord. First, we must pray and seek God’s direction for what to do and how to live. Then, we should look ahead to what He has in store for us.
Therefore, in our life plans, it is crucial to develop a solid foundation grounded in Christian values, which will and inspire us to face challenges with faith, hope, and purpose.
An example of this is Joseph, who showed commitment, overcame adversity, and had divine direction. From being a spoiled young man, he became a courageous and self-sufficient man. This transformation is fundamental for every Christian teenager. We cannot expect the world to revolve around us, but we must take responsibility for our lives, placing God’s will above all else. Just like Joseph, we must honor God in all circumstances, even in the face of difficulties.
It is significant to reflect on every step because each decision we make is observed by God. Nothing is hidden from His eyes, and we will give an account to Him. Therefore, when planning our life projects, we must seek His direction and trust that He will guide us on the right path.
Joseph believed in God’s constant vigilance over his life. This became evident in his response to the advances of Potiphar’s wife: “How then could I do such a wicked thing and sin against God?” (Genesis 39:9, NIV).
It is crucial to take seriously the inspired words about this: “If we keep in mind that God sees and hears everything, and faithfully records our words and actions, we will fear to sin.
Young people should remember that they are always in the presence of God, and nothing in their conduct escapes His observation. We cannot hide our ways from the Most High. While human laws may be transgressed with impunity, this is not the case with God’s Law. No action goes unnoticed. Even the motives of the heart are visible to His inspection. Every act, word, and thought is clearly seen as if only one person existed in the world, Heaven’s and attention were entirely focused on them.”
Another crucial point for teenagers is that true character is revealed in the most difficult moments. This became clear in Joseph’s life while he was unjustly imprisoned.
Despite the injustice, Joseph kept his faith and patience firm. Even after years of loyal service, he was treated cruelly, but this did not make him bitter or distrustful.
He had the peace that comes from a clear conscience and trusted in God. Instead of sinking into his own sorrows, he sought to relieve the sorrows of others. He found purpose even in prison. God was preparing him through suffering for a greater purpose and he accepted that discipline.
Observing in prison the effects of oppression, crime, and tyranny, he learned lessons of justice, compassion, and mercy, preparing him to exercise power with wisdom and compassion.
So, if you are facing difficulties even while doing what is right, do not be discouraged. God is preparing you to fulfill His purposes. By following Jesus’ example, we can grow in virtue every day. If we decide to put Him at the center of our lives, not just in adolescence but throughout our journey, we will be a blessing to those around us, and God will be glorified. Will you do that? Will you trust your life completely into God’s hands?
Joseph chose to honor the Heavenly Father above all and everyone else. God’s hand will always open doors of success for those who are faithful to His will. However, do not be deceived. Don’t think that being honored by God means receiving some privilege here on Earth.
JOSEPH’S GREATEST HONOR WILL BE TO ONE DAY BE IN HEAVEN. THAT CAN ALSO BE YOUR REWARD: TO ENTER THE HOLY CITY THROUGH THE SAME GATE THAT JOSEPH WILL PASS THROUGH. AND THIS IS A REAL POSSIBILITY THAT IS NOW IN YOUR HANDS. WHAT DECISION WILL YOU MAKE?
