Read
Ecclesiastes 11:9, "Young people, it's wonderful to be young! Enjoy every minute of it. Do everything you want to do; take it all in. But remember that you must give account to God for everything you do."
Think
Too many of us are of the opinion that God is a cosmic killjoy with a long list of "Don'ts!" Rarely do we consider that God has given us instructions for our protection. In our youth, we just want to do what we want to do, when we want to do it. We adopt mottos like "YOLO – You Only Live Once!" and "If it feels good, do it!" Never mind the consequences. After all, The Party Animal doesn't need to think about that! Unfortunately, the consequences of regret, shame, and damaged reputations are far too familiar in the life of The Party Animal. Today's scripture is specifically addressed to young people from former Party Animals who have learned from the mistakes of their youth. They know what it means to answer for the choices they've made. They would advise that "Just because you
can, doesn't mean you
should." Because of our desire for contentment, God has given us everything we need to enjoy life and the instructions to help us avoid the traps that surround them. By obeying his commands, we are free to experience his best for our lives. And that is something to celebrate!
Act
On a piece of paper, write the choices you might be facing in the near future. Under each choice, create two lists: a reward column and a consequence column. Now, pray for God's courage and wisdom to help you make the right choice.
Pray
Heavenly Father, thank you for all you have given me, which is everything. I know you are not a cosmic killjoy, but my loving, heavenly Father who wants the best for me. Help me to see your instructions for my life - not as a list of don'ts - but as a list of things I can do to help me experience your best. Give me the courage and wisdom to choose your path instead of my own. In Jesus' name, Amen.