Open Heavens Devotional by Pastor E.A. Adeboye
MEMORIZE: “Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity” (1 Tim. 4:12)
READ: 1 Samuel 3:1-5
In addition to appreciating and going after what is good, parents should teach their children and wards to respect God’s anointed vessels. In Psalm 105:14-15, God warned that nobody should touch or harm His anointed. That warning is not limited to adults but also applies to children and teens. God does not take kindly to any act that insults, belittles or ridicules God’s anointed. In 2 Kings 2:23-24, some children thought it fun to mock God’s servant and call him names. God’s judgement fell on them immediately. Two she-bears came from nowhere and tore all 42 of them to shreds. Even today, some children, particularly teenagers, call men of God names. In a particular Gospel church, it was discovered that the teens gave most adult members nick-names. When they discussed about their parents, ministers and pastors, nobody knew who they were referring to. Warn your children to never disrespect the anointed of God or someone older than them. Carefully instruct them to leave anywhere people, especially their peers, are making jest of men of God. Those who make fun of God’s anointed servants do not live long (Num. 16:1-35). Do not rebuke an elder.
Another thing you can teach your children is that age is no barrier to being used of God. Tell them that if only they can yield to God, they can become His vessels of honour as young as they are. Samuel was only a child in the temple at Shiloh when He began to minister to God and hear from Him (1 Sam. 3:1-14). As children, if they can open their hearts to the Lord, He can speak to them. God wants to establish a relationship with children. As a child, you can hear His voice and He can confide in you like He did to young Samuel. Similarly, David was a young boy when he killed Goliath. Your children can take out the giants that had troubled their parents for generations. Also, Timothy was a youth when he came into ministry. In fact, because of his age, his spiritual father – Paul, had to tell him that his age should not be a reason for not measuring up. As a youth, you can be an outstanding servant of God. Get to know the Lord now and hand over your life to Him. It shall be well with you.
ACTION POINT
Anyone who looks down on God’s young vessels is looking down on God. Such a person is most unwise. Honour God in the life of every child or minister of God.
Bible in One year: Rev. 10-12
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