Recently, a man who leads a large ministry commented on his appreciation of the encouraging words I often send to him. Although I am not a young man anymore (turned 45 a little over a week ago), there is a ministry which young men can begin right away with almost no competition in the worldwide Church for this ministry. This ministry has two parts: prayer and encouragement.
Many young men want to begin to have influence and a voice in the Church. Over the years, I have watched many young men do this in a dishonorable way. The world’s way to be heard is to say outrageous, hyperbolic, things in public; find some weakness in others to exploit for gain. Here are two scripture passages for the young man who wants to be heard in the Church:
Hebrews 4:16
16 Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.
1 Timothy 2:1-3
2 I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men;
2 For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.
3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour;
Anyone who wants to be heard can immediately have a voice at the throne of God. Intercession for those in authority in the Church (elders) is good and acceptable to our Lord. For those who want to be immersed in the grace of God, there is humility and honor. Encouragement and prayer are a great place to start if a young man desires to honor his fathers (physical and spiritual).
1 Peter 5:5
5 Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.
A scripture passage concerning encouragement is below. How many leaders would be kept from falling and how many churches would be protected from schisms if the young men would take the admonition below to heart.
1 Thessalonians 5:11-13
11 Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do.
12 And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you;
13 And to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. And be at peace among yourselves.
Galatians 6:9 says, “And let us not be weary in well doing.” Young men should consider that their prayers and encouragement are part of the means of God’s grace whereby our leaders might be sustained.