The youth are the future of the church. From Abraham till now, we see God mightily using youth for His glory. God proved Joseph, Joshua, Caleb, John, Stephen, etc., as they remained humble for God's glory to manifest.

What's the most important requirement for God to work in our lives as believers? His holiness. Not simply head knowledge of how holy God is, but a surrender to grow in His holiness. Without holiness (and peace), no man can see God. The advantage we have is that He created us in holiness. The advantage is optimised when we submit willingly. (Deuteronomy 23:14) (Hebrews 12:14)

WHAT ARE THE REASONS YOUTH STRUGGLE IN THEIR WALK WITH GOD?

1. Many think they are believers, though they've never encountered God. In short, no born-again experience. They ritualistically lived a life since childhood because they were born into a Christian family. In their teens, they struggle to relate to God.

2. Some, even after their initial spiritual experiences, backslide. Their love for God gets tested, and they reject God. Demas left the apostolic calling because he loved the present evil world.

3. Instead of investing their youth in God's presence (Ecclesiastes 12:1), they give in to fleshly desires. Believers need to learn to lift their yoke when young. What yoke? The cross, a mind of suffering, etc., to tell the world about Jesus. (Lamentations 3:27) (Galatians 6:17)

4. Often, youth forget what they heard during sermons or personal meditation of the word. They end up compromising their walk. (Psalms 119:9,11) (James 1:22-25).

5. Youth are Arrows in the hand of the mighty (Psalms 127:4). Some have a lot of revelation but no action. Ephraim's sons put on the whole armour but gave up on the day of battle. (Psalms 78:9) (1 John 2:13)

6. Some youth succumb too easily to sickness. There was no weak Israelite during the wilderness journey. None fell sick. Youth must learn to trust the Holy Spirit to fly like eagles (Isaiah 40:31).

7. Some love the world and the things of the world. Like the young man (Matthew 19:16) who loved riches and his self righteous ways rather than live for God.

8. Many are sleepy, like Eutychus. Learn to overcome sleeping natures (Acts 20:9) during prayer and Bible study.

9. Many who've received the Holy Spirit baptism with gifts do not give room for God to work in and through them, so they struggle spiritually.

10. Many lack understanding because they aren't diligent nor desire God's will. Desire counsel, seek fresh vision, revelation, fresh anointing of Spirit (Joel, Acts) (1 Chronicles 12:32). The children of Issachar had an understanding of the times.

Each point deserves a deeper explanation. The shortest answer and the best solution is love for God. Examine your walk, and encourage others in these last days. Time is short.

Maranatha, Praise God, and Amen.