I have written unto you, young men, because ye are strong, and the word of God abideth in you, and ye have overcome the wicked one– 1 John 2:14
It is a myth that many young people perpetuate in their mind, that they cannot be strong or mature or successful in their Christian walk until they are older. But Paul writes here to young people who have successfully overcome Satan’s attacks.
How did they do it? They were strong; they stood their ground, even against the prevailing spirit and trends of their day. They refused to be intimidated, or enticed, by the constant bombardment of sin and sinful influences.
How could they be so strong? Where did they find the courage and wisdom to stand for truth and purity and goodness? The word of God had taken up residence in their hearts. It was not merely an occasional visitor to their minds, but a settled and constant inhabitant of their souls.
There is no shortcut to spiritual strength. A holy life is always the product of a holy reverence and love for God and His Word. Sadly, it is true, many young people do not experience the abundant life that is found in the way of Jesus Christ, because they are unwilling to exercise spiritual discipline.
However, spiritual apathy and weakness is not inevitable in early life. Young person, when your spirit and your will are controlled by the constant presence and application of God’s Word, you too can be strong; you too can overcome the wickedness of your culture and your generation.– “A Good Thing”
