NAVIGATING LIFE AS A CHRISTIAN YOUTH

Life as a young Christian comes with its own set of challenges, including peer pressure, societal expectations, and the struggle to balance faith with everyday life. In a world that prioritizes success, wealth, and fame, staying firmly rooted in Christ requires conscious effort. Christian ethics act as a guiding compass, helping young believers navigate these modern challenges.

Avelu Chiero

Miss Avelu Chiero faithfully served as the Finance Core Leader of NCF Mumbai for three consecutive years and remains an active member. She is currently a doctoral candidate pursuing her Ph.D. in Biostatistics and Demography at International Institute for Population Sciences, Mumbai.

We are frustrated with life and want instant solutions to problems, with no self-satisfaction. As beings created in the image of God, we were designed for fellowship with Him, but sin has broken that connection. Deep within, we are crying and screaming for something and not sure what it is. Thinking we will find peace and satisfaction in worldly materialism but it’s not. Real peace and meaning in life will be found only when we have surrendered our lives to Christ.

All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work”.

2 Timothy 3:16-17

Staying Anchored in God’s Word with Faith

Faith is a deeply personal conviction, rooted in one’s relationship with God and the teachings of Jesus Christ. The real question is: Do we genuinely have an intimate relationship with Jesus, which is in the new covenant? Cultivating this connection requires reading the Bible, praying, trusting, and listening to Him. I firmly believe that when we truly understand who Christ is through a personal relationship and obeying God’s commandments, His presence will naturally shine through us. Rather than being anxious about the future, we can rest in the assurance that God holds it in.

The Struggles of Today’s Youth: Finding True Peace in God

Having spent over five years in cities, serving in the church and the students’ union, I have encountered many talented young people. However, it is sad to see many of us are opportunistic Christians, seeking God only when it serves our interests and benefits. In doing so, we overlook life’s true purpose. Today, young people are being deceived, chasing after worldly success, money, and glamour of this world.

Flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace

2 Timothy 2:22

We are frustrated with life and want instant solutions to problems, with no self-satisfaction. As beings created in the image of God, we were designed for fellowship with Him, but sin has broken that connection. Deep within, we are crying and screaming for something and not sure what it is. Thinking we will find peace and satisfaction in worldly materialism but it’s not. Real peace and meaning in life will be found only when we have surrendered our lives to Christ.

Finding Purpose and Calling in Life

We are created by God, for His purpose, and He desires to fulfill His work through us. So, why not ask Him, “Lord, is there anything I can do for You?” As Rick Warren wisely said, “Youth is the best time to serve God”. Serving God is not limited to full-time ministry; it can take many forms—through prayer, giving, or actively participating in His work. If you are doubtful, I encourage you to seek Him in prayer. Instead of constantly seeking God’s blessings, why not do something for the Lord? Remember, our God is rich in abundance and owes nothing to anyone.

In 2021, God gave me a burden to pray “Ask not what God can do for you, but ask what you can do for God.” These words moved me deeply, I prayed “Lord I don’t have anything to offer you, but if there is anything I can do for you I will do it”. God’s calling is unique for each of us, and for me, He has called me to serve Him through giving. Since 2021, I have partnered with my family to support mission workers. While this may seem like a small act to others, for me, it has become one of my life’s purposes, realizing that I was created and shaped to serve Him.

As young Christians, we are called to live with purpose, grounded in faith. In a world full of distractions and challenges, staying anchored in Christ helps us navigate life’s journey with peace, direction, and true fulfillment.