How can we encourage young believers to trust God's plan for their lives? Setting the Scene: A Seven-Year-Old King “Joash was seven years old when he became king.” (2 Kings 11:21) • A child on the throne shows how God can entrust significant roles to the young. • The preservation and coronation of Joash prove that God’s plan is unstoppable, even when evil seems dominant (see the overthrow of Athaliah in the surrounding verses). • If God could guard a boy-king and shape a nation through him, He can certainly direct the lives of young believers today. Key Truths to Share with Young Believers • God’s plan is personal and pre-written: Psalm 139:16. • His plan is good: Jeremiah 29:11. • Age is no barrier to usefulness: 1 Timothy 4:12; Joash at seven. • Trust is commanded, not suggested: Proverbs 3:5-6. • God finishes what He starts: Philippians 1:6. Practical Ways to Build Confidence in God’s Plan • Tell God’s stories: Regularly recount biblical and modern testimonies of God’s faithfulness. • Encourage Scripture saturation: Help them memorize verses above; truth combats doubt. • Model surrendered living: Let them see older believers making choices that prioritize obedience over convenience. • Celebrate small steps: Affirm obedience in schoolwork, friendships, and church service; these are training grounds for larger callings. • Provide mentoring: Pair them with trustworthy adults who will pray, listen, and speak truth. • Invite participation: Give real ministry responsibilities—music, tech, greeting, missions prep—so they learn by doing. • Pray over their decisions in their presence, reminding them that the Lord is actively involved. Scripture Connections That Reinforce the Lesson • Jeremiah 1:6-8—God calls Jeremiah while young; promises presence. • Psalm 37:5—“Commit your way to the LORD; trust in Him, and He will do it.” • Isaiah 46:9-10—God declares the end from the beginning; history is His script. • Ephesians 2:10—We are created for good works prepared in advance. • Hebrews 10:23—He who promised is faithful. Encouragement to Take the Next Step of Faith • Remind them that Joash could not see the entire path, yet he stepped into kingship because God placed him there. • Urge them to take today’s obedient step, trusting that tomorrow is already secured by the same God who guarded a seven-year-old king and fulfilled every word He spoke. |
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