It was a sight to horrify any human being. A bus was smashed on the side of an Interstate highway, and the dead and injured were scattered everywhere.
That scene brought home the fact that regardless of the innocence of the subjects, danger and death may be lurking just around the next bend in the road. Five were dead and some twenty others injured. No one knows just what happened. That tragedy was almost a year ago, but I can still visualize that scene in my mind, and I can’t help thinking of that busload of youths who, though they survived the crash, will never be the same.
Our community has seen our share of teen deaths in the last few years. Such dangers surround even Christian youth. It is good for our young people to be with other Christians. It gives them the opportunity to be a good example and to live the life about which their teachers have instructed them.
But vigilance will always be a necessity when young people gather. Safety from predators, both human and inhuman, from accidents and from other physical harm, is an imperative. Those who supervise these essential activities must exercise great care. The recent kidnappings so prominent in the news have brought this to mind even more powerfully.
Another, even more important need for vigilance, is the spiritual safety of our youth. Those who teach our youth must be the very best teachers, and they must be well grounded in the truth of God’s Word. As dangerous as a traffic accident can be, it is eternally dangerous for teachers to fail to be faithful to the Word they profess to teach. It is imperative that what they teach is true, for only truth will give them the strength they need. How can we guard our youth, our children in this area?
Homes that exalt Christ
Surveys from secular and religious sources reveal that when the home is what it ought to be, children are already a step ahead. Of course they need to see and hear their parents pray, read their Bible, talk about spiritual matters. They need to know Christ is first in the lives of their parents, and learn the joy of being a Christian. Nothing you can buy, hire or give can take the place of your example, 2 Samuel 12:14.
Enthusiastic Bible teachers
Again, teachers who are faithful in their own lives are a must. But just as important are teachers who take their task seriously, preparing their lessons, knowing their Bible, encouraging each student to be a strong, faithful Christian, and giving them personal attention. No two students are alike, and they need to love and respect their teacher. This is not an optional item, James 3:1.
Challenging preaching
It may surprise us to find out how early children begin to learn from a sermon. No, they will not be able to grasp what an adult can, but they hear words and stories that become familiar. They recognize the preacher and learn to have respect for God’s Word. As years go by, they increase in their understanding of those lessons, and if challenged to follow in Jesus’ steps, they have a solid foundation upon which to build their lives, 1 Peter 2:20-22.
Examples of service
We have always known that “actions speak louder than words.” The good conduct of young people who are a bit older can provide positive examples for them to follow. When they see them living godly lives of service and kindness, they are even more likely to follow their good examples. If the general attitude of their home congregation is positive, and if they see elders and deacons serving others, they will learn to serve also. Read what Jesus said in Matthew 20:24-28.
Association with Christians
We have known for years that, besides parents, the most powerful influence on youth will be their peers. Godly parents will find ways to provide association with others of “like precious faith.” This can provide them encouragement and confidence, knowing that others are facing and conquering the same obstacles. The church can provide assistance in this area, but parents must not expect others to take care of their children’s needs.
The words of our title, found in 2 Samuel 18:29, linger in our minds. We must answer: “Is the young man safe?”
