Rejoice, O young Man, in your youth, and let your heart cheer you in the days of your youth; Walk in the ways of your heart and in the sight of your eyes; But know that for all these God will bring you into judgement. – Ecclesiastes 11:9

These are the words of wise King Solomon admonishing youths to be cautious of every decision and action.

All things have been given to us by God to enjoy, but understanding the law of balance is essential. Lack of balance will lead to abuse. For instance, when your body needs rest, understanding your body signs will let you know when to stop and rest. But if the signs are ignored, a partial or total breakdown of the body system might occur.

Youth are to enjoy their freedom, while mastering their desires and actions. Newton’s third law of motion says “For every action, there is an equal reaction.” You will be judged by what you do, so be responsible and careful in all you do. 1 Corinthians 6:12 says “All things are lawful for me, but not all things are helpful; all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any.”

Don’t allow the desire for this world control you; be its master. The truth is that life is not fair; neither do things happen by accident. You only get from life what you negotiate from it.

Watch your company as they can either make or mar you. Proverb 13:20 says “He who walks with wise men will be wise, but the companion of fools will be destroyed.” Do not be deceived; bad company corrupts good morals. The people you relate with regularly will influence you.

As a young person, stand for the good that you believe. Don’t allow peer pressure sway you. Be tenacious even if it is for an unpopular decision as long as it is God’s. Guard you relationship with Christ and shun anything that will compromise it. Just like Daniel, purpose in your mind not to defile yourself (Daniel 1:6); God always honours such commitment. Just like He did for Daniel by making him better and wiser than his peers, God is set to make you the standard. Your future is worth more than the fleeting pleasure of self-gratification.

The irresponsibility of David’s son Amnon made him rape his sister Tamar. The resultant effects were Ammon’s death, Absalom’s exile and Tamar’s desolation.

Your words and actions have a re-action, so deal responsibly.