Young People Need Models

The following statement was made by a very famous college basketball coach: "Young people need models not critics". This is a very true statement. The Bible plainly teaches that one must be an example to others. Jesus tells us in Matthew 5: 13-16 that we are the "salt of the earth and the light of the world". In I Timothy 4:12 we read, "but be thou an example".

Example is defined as "a model; pattern." What kind of model or pattern are we setting for our young people? Let's look at some ways that we must be an example or model to our young people.

Students of the Bible. Mothers and fathers must be an example to their children in their study of God's word. How can young people learn to appreciate the Bible, have a desire to learn its pages of truth and apply it to their lives if their parents and Bible class teachers do not do likewise? The person who probably had the biggest influence on my life, so far as wanting to learn the Bible, was one of my Bible class teachers. He is not a preacher, but one who really studies and knows the Bible. This made an impression on me so great that I likewise want to know the scriptures. Yes, we must be a model of Bible study before our young people.

Faithful attendance to the services of the church. In Hebrews 10:25 we read, "not forsaking the assembling or ourselves together". We must be a model of attendance to the worship services. I will always be grateful to my parents for taking me to worship. We always went so far as I can remember. If parents do not attend the services faithfully, they should not expect their children to attend faithfully. Yes, we must set the pattern of being present at every service that we possibly can.

Dedicated lives to Jesus Christ. Parents must exemplify what Paul says in Galatians 2:20: "1 am crucified with Christ; Nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith of the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me." When children see their parents as dedicated Christians, then the chances are greater for them to do the same. When the young people of a congregation see others who are dedicated to Christ, then they will be influenced in a way that will make a lasting impression upon them. Yes, young people need models of dedicated lives to Jesus Christ.

We must let our light shine before others, especially to our young people. Let's be the proper model or pattern for our young people as Jesus expects.

Ladies' Devotional
Ladies, just a reminder: We will meet tomorrow, (Monday, October 9^th) for our regular devotional/luncheon at 11:30 in the annex. Those who wish to make visitations and carry food to shut-ins are encouraged to do so after lunch. The topic for our devotion is "Christian Living: Things a Christian Will Do". Everyone is invited to attend.         ...Sandy Callender

Cans Needed!
The Ladies' Work Group is collecting cans for an upcoming project. They would like the larger cans, like the size of a large can of peaches. If you can help out, see Libbie Littleton.

Our hearts and prayers go out in deepest sympathy to the families and friends of J. C. Cox, the brother of Latanae Sims, and Olivia Miner, the mother of Janie Hall, who each passed away this past week. May God provide His peace and comfort in this time of loss and sorrow.

Without seeming to be unpatriotic I submit to you that the Christian Life is really the best life that a man can live. It is no accident that Christianity is called "The Way". (John 14:6). Whatever other road a man may travel it is simply the bypath leading to the dead end.