Let the Youth Speak for God’s Glory

In a world where the voices of young people are often dismissed or overlooked, the Bible shows us that God delights in using youth to declare His glory. From David to Mary, and Timothy to the young Jeremiah, Scripture is filled with examples of God calling the young to step forward in faith. As Psalm 8:2 reminds us, "Out of the mouths of babes and infants, you have established strength because of your foes."

Today, the church has a unique opportunity to encourage the next generation to speak boldly for Christ. In an age when young voices are heard on many platforms—from social media to activism—there is no better time to empower youth to proclaim the eternal truths of the gospel.

God Uses the Young to Lead

Throughout the Bible, we see God calling young people to accomplish great things for His kingdom. King David was only a young shepherd when he stood before Goliath and declared, “The Lord will deliver me” (1 Samuel 17:37). Jeremiah, despite feeling inadequate due to his age, was called by God as a prophet to the nations (Jeremiah 1:6-7). And in the New Testament, Timothy was instructed by Paul to not let anyone look down on him because he was young but to “set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, and in purity” (1 Timothy 4:12).

These stories serve as reminders that God does not measure leadership by age. Instead, He looks at the heart and the willingness to serve. In a society where youthfulness is often equated with inexperience, the church is called to embrace the potential of young believers and nurture their gifts for God’s purposes.

Encouraging Youth to Speak Boldly

How can the church today help young people grow in their faith and empower them to speak boldly for Christ? Here are a few practical steps:

• Give Them a Platform: It’s essential to provide opportunities for young people to share their faith in meaningful ways. Whether through youth group discussions, testimony sharing, or involvement in church ministries, creating spaces where they can express their convictions will build their confidence. Encouraging them to lead prayers, read Scripture, or share their thoughts on biblical topics can foster growth in both knowledge and boldness.

• Model Bold Faith: One of the most powerful ways to inspire young believers is through example. When they see older believers stepping out in faith, speaking truth with love, and living courageously for Christ, they are more likely to follow suit. Mentorship is key—coming alongside young people, sharing personal stories of faith, and guiding them through their questions.

• Encourage Biblical Study: Young people need to be grounded in the Word of God if they are to speak truthfully and effectively about their faith. Psalm 119:105 says, "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path." Encourage the youth to dive deep into Scripture, providing them with study resources and tools that will help them understand and apply God’s Word to their lives. A solid foundation in the Bible will equip them to speak with confidence.

• Affirm Their Gifts: Every young believer has been uniquely gifted by God. Some may have the gift of teaching, others the gift of compassion, creativity, or leadership. The church must be diligent in recognizing these gifts and providing encouragement. When youth feel valued and affirmed, they are more likely to step out in faith and use their talents for God’s glory.

Facing Challenges with Courage

While the call for youth to speak boldly is clear, it does not come without challenges. Today’s culture presents numerous obstacles, from peer pressure to the fear of rejection or criticism. Social media, though it provides a platform for expression, can also be a source of insecurity or negativity. Additionally, young people often face the internal struggle of feeling inadequate or unqualified to speak on matters of faith.

The good news is that God equips those He calls. Moses was hesitant, Jeremiah felt too young, and even Paul referred to himself as the "least of the apostles" (1 Corinthians 15:9). Yet, God used each of them mightily. In moments of doubt, young people can take comfort in God’s promise to be with them. As He told Jeremiah, “Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you” (Jeremiah 1:8).

Encouraging youth to overcome these challenges involves reminding them that their worth and identity are found in Christ, not in the approval of others. 1 Peter 2:9 affirms this identity: "But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His wonderful light."

The Impact of Youthful Boldness

When youth speak boldly for Christ, the impact can be far-reaching. Young people often have unique access to circles of influence that older generations may not—whether in schools, social groups, or through online platforms. Their passion and authenticity can inspire both their peers and those older than them. Research shows that when young people are actively involved in their faith communities, they are more likely to continue practicing their faith into adulthood, carrying their boldness forward.

Furthermore, when the church nurtures the voices of youth, it fosters a culture of inclusion and diversity, where every generation is valued and heard. It also ensures that the message of the gospel is communicated in fresh and relevant ways, reaching a broader audience.

Conclusion

God’s plan includes the voices of young people declaring His truth, just as He used youth in the Bible to advance His kingdom. The church has a responsibility to encourage, equip, and empower young believers to speak boldly, trusting that their faith can change the world around them.

Let’s commit to listening to the youth, giving them opportunities to lead, and supporting them in their walk with Christ. Together, we can help them grow into the bold ambassadors for Christ that they are called to be. If you know a young person who needs encouragement or want to stay informed on ways to foster faith in the next generation, share this article or subscribe to our newsletter for more insights.