Daily Grace Devotional September 16, 2024 By Evang. Ubong Ifiok
How Youthful or Useful Are You in God’s House?
Scripture:
“Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.”
— 1 Timothy 4:12 (NIV)
Message:
Being youthful in God’s house isn’t about age—it’s about having a heart that is willing, eager, and ready to serve. It’s about the energy and zeal we bring to God’s work, regardless of whether we are young or old. The question is not just how youthful you are, but how useful you are in the house of God.
God calls us to be both youthful in our enthusiasm and useful in our service. A youthful spirit is one that remains passionate, open to learning, and full of hope. This doesn’t fade with age, but grows stronger as we walk with Christ. The Bible encourages us to offer ourselves fully to God, to serve Him with our whole heart, mind, and strength, using the gifts and talents He has placed within us.
In 1 Timothy 4:12, Paul speaks to Timothy, encouraging him not to be discouraged because of his youth but to set an example in all areas of life. This message applies to all believers: we are called to set an example, whether we are young in age or young in faith, through our actions, love, faith, and purity. Our usefulness in God’s house comes from our willingness to live out our faith in a way that honors Him and draws others closer to Him.
To be useful in God’s house is to be available for His service. Whether we are involved in teaching, helping, praying, or simply showing kindness to others, every contribution is valuable in the kingdom of God. Sometimes we may feel inadequate, but God doesn’t ask for perfection; He asks for willingness. When we offer our time, talents, and resources to Him, He multiplies them for His glory.
Are you making yourself available for God’s work? Are you actively looking for ways to serve in your church, your community, or even your family? Sometimes, being useful in God’s house starts with small acts of kindness, a word of encouragement, or a prayer for someone in need.
Let us not become weary in doing good, as Galatians 6:9 says, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. The youthful heart is a willing heart, and the useful servant is one who is faithful in even the smallest tasks. God rewards our faithfulness and multiplies our efforts when we serve Him with sincerity.
Prayer:
Lord, thank You for the opportunity to serve in Your house. Help me to be both youthful in my enthusiasm and useful in my service. Teach me to use the gifts You have given me to glorify Your name and to bless those around me. I offer myself to You fully, trusting that You will guide and empower me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Further Reading:
- Galatians 6:9
- 1 Peter 4:10
- Romans 12:4-8
- Colossians 3:23-24
Leave a Reply