Welcome to The Turnaround!
Introduction
Can the young overcome evil?
Insight
The Psalmist asks a question for the ages, “How can a young man keep his way pure?”
It is a question that every generation asks about the younger generation. “Is it possible,” they wonder, “if the next generation can overcome the prevailing evil.” And all the while…some grandparents fret, some mothers worry and some fathers fear.
But the Psalmist does not end with a hopeless question. He is not worried or fearful. Instead, the Psalmist answers the inquiry of the ages with a resounding Yes! The young can remain pure in a secular society.
“How?,” you ask. The Psalmist declares, “By living according to God’s word.” In verses 10-16, the Psalmist outlines five additional and very specific instructions for living a life of purity.
The first instruction is SEEK. Go after God. Look for him. Pursue him. Do not be distracted by lesser goals or worthless pursuits. Instead, wholeheartedly seek Christ and his kingdom.
The second instruction is STORE. Collect the words of God. Stockpile the scriptures in your head and they will eventually find themselves lodged in your heart. And when these words are hidden in your heart, they will enable you to defeat the evil one.
The third instruction is DECLARE. the truth. Declare his promises. Proclaim the words of God. Open your mouth and speak.
The fourth instruction is MEDITATE. Think about the words of God. Ponder it. Study. Do so when you awake in the morning, all through the day and when you go to bed at night. Allow the Holy Scriptures to overwhelm your every thought.The fifth and final instruction is DELIGHT. The disciplines of seeking, storing, declaring and meditating are not drudgery. Instead, they are a joy. It is a delight to pursue the one true living God because if you seek him, you will find him.
Although these words in Psalm 119 contain truth for all ages, these words are especially significant for the young. Purity is attainable.
Turnaround Question
Young People, Psalm 119 is a recipe for living a godly life. Memorizing and careful study are essential. Are you putting aside time to be in the Word memorizing it daily?
Are you asking God to help the young overcome evil?
How can you bring this powerful instruction to young children in your area?
Prayer
God, help our children. May they seek you. Help them store the word of God in their hearts. I pray that every day they will declare your words, meditate on the truth, delight in your promises. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
