Title: Remember the Creator (Ecclesiastes 12:1-2)
Contents
Vancouver is one of the most liveable cities in the world. However, it has the second highest suicide rate in the world. Actress Lee Eun-ju, who committed suicide this time, combines beauty and talent. popularity. honor. He was a wealthy young man. Why did you commit suicide? - Severe depression. There are also signs of glorifying her death - forever 26. However, from a Christian standpoint, suicide is an irreversible crime.
In general, the motive for suicide occurs when the purpose of life is lost or when there is no sense of meaning in life. Many people live life like a wanderer. The common life theory of the elderly - futile.
Behind the confession that life is futile, it is a phenomenon that appears because life has no purpose.
But the Bible gives a clear answer to the purpose of life.
Ephesians 2:10, “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works…”
From the beginning, the Bible testifies that human beings were created for a purposeful life.
I would strongly recommend that our youth have a clear sense of purpose in life through today's youth service hosted by the Youth Association.
To do that, you must have clear answers to at least five questions.
1. What is the center of my life?
Some people value their studies, work, family, money, sports, hobbies, pleasures, etc... very much.
But these things are not suitable for being the center of our lives. because? Because those things don't protect me when my life is falling apart.
Ex) Typhoon (Euragulo) met by Paul and his friends on their way to Rome - Throwing all the goods on the cargo ship into the sea. Except for a small amount of form.
We need a strong force to hold us steady in our lives. What is it? - It is Jesus Christ.
2 Chronicles 14:4, King Asa, to the people, “Seek the Lord!” “Put God at the center of your life!”
Ephesians 3:17 Let Christ dwell in your hearts through faith, that you may be rooted and grounded in love...
So how do I know that Christ is at the center of my life? - It is witnessed through worship. Worship itself is important, but worship is also an outward evidence of God's love.
When young people oversleep and fail to attend services, it is evidence that Christ is not at the center of their lives. Part-time work, friends, entertainment, study... these are the causes of failure in their lives.
The first condition for a successful, happy life is to have Christ at the center of your life. When Christ is at my center - peace, stability, joy.
Who is at the center of your life?
2. What kind of character should I be?
Ex) Luxury car - Elasticity!
Our attention is too focused on external conditions. Ex) Appearance, clothing, occupation, school, etc.
God's interest - We need to know that we are more interested in who we are than what school we attend and what kind of profession we are engaged in.
1 Peter 1:5-7 Therefore, be all the more diligent, supplying to your faith, virtue, knowledge, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, perseverance, godliness, godliness, brotherly kindness, and brotherly kindness, love.
The Christian life is a process of becoming like Christ. In my life, quarrels over hatred, envy, and quarrels disappear and I work hard, hoping that the fruit of the Holy Spirit will be produced.
“I want to be like Jesus only~” Build a holy character through Bible reading, prayer, and fasting.
If you give up being like the Lord and want to live a decent life, you will be battling for the rest of your life.
What do I look like? How much are you becoming more like the character of the Lord?
3. Where am I using my life?
Stagnant water tends to rot, and running water does not collect moss.
What is the most rewarding and valuable way to use my life and my youth? It is serving others.
Ex) Passionate about investing in loving pets.
What is the most valuable use of the gifts, talents, health, abilities, and wealth that each of us has been given?
First, it is preferred to use it to serve other members in the church community, which is the body of the Lord. Where in the church do you really need me? who needs me You need an active attitude to find yourself.
Ex) Sunday School teacher, vehicle driving, choir, cleaning, serving meals, preparing snacks, guiding, folding bulletins, etc.
Of course, it is okay if our service is not sufficient to meet the needs of others. If you do your best to serve, you will see fruit.
John 15:16 You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you may go and bear much fruit, and that your fruit may remain...
The world is selfish. don't try to lose But Jesus did not tell us that.
Mark 10:45, For the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.
John 12:24 Unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit.
Always ask yourself “Who should I help? Where should I serve?” If there is a need, show the spirit of service and sacrifice. Don't be shy Don't be too fussy.
4. Are you living your life as a missionary?
Matthew 28:19-20 Go ye and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. Behold, I am with you always, even to the end of the world.
The best way to maximize your Christian life is to evangelize. Evangelism is to give birth to spiritual children.
Ex) The confession of a deacon who recently evangelized. - I didn't know you were so happy.
Ex) Bandung - YWAM Missionary Byun Jae-chang's wife, adopted her first birthday party recently.
It's not just my joy, it's my mission as a Christian.
Interest in my family, friends, and neighbors - Participate in world missions
Ex) Muslims - It is touching to see them worshiping fervently in spite of all kinds of persecution. Even if the skin and language are different.
Philippians 1:27, Only ye live worthy of the gospel of Christ.
First, you must have confidence in your salvation. Be a young man who has the courage to proudly confess that he is a Christian and live a life as an evangelist who can confidently testify of Christ. God is in charge.
5. Who is my life partner?
Church-going youth - I get along better with non-believing friends and say, "Children who go to church are no fun."
Take him to a high-end pub and drink until 3 o'clock - Go to work by 9 o'clock tomorrow.
2 Timothy 2:22 Also, flee from youthful lusts, and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.
Make friends with whom you can build friendships in the same faith as David and Jonathan.
Good competition and challenge - for the glory of God.
Who are the friends I am dating now? If you have friends who want to make friends with alcohol, tobacco, and pleasure, stay away. Have fellowship with friends of faith who can spend eternity together.
Do you want to make your life great? - Remember the creator.
1) Have Christ at the center.
2) Strive for godliness to be like Christ.
3) Live a life of service.
4) Live your life as an evangelist.
5) Make friends of faith.