MH page 396

Our children stand, as it were, at the parting of the ways. On every hand the world's enticements to self- seeking and self-indulgence call them away from the path cast up for the ransomed of the Lord. Whether their lives shall be a blessing or a curse depends upon the choice they make. Overflowing with energy, eager to test their untried capabilities, they must find some outlet for their superabounding life. Active they will be for good or for evil.

Youth possess abundant energy that must find an active outlet either for good or for evil. It discusses adolescent developmental energy and behavioral choices, blending moral and psychological observation.

God's word does not repress activity, but guides it aright. God does not bid the youth to be less aspiring. The elements of character that make a man truly successful and honored among men—the irrepressible desire for some greater good, the indomitable will, the strenuous application, the untiring perseverance—are not to be discouraged. By the grace of God they are to be directed to the attainment of objects as much higher than mere selfish and worldly interests as the heavens are higher than the earth.

Drive, will, and perseverance in youth should be guided toward high moral objectives rather than mere self-seeking. It discusses character traits and their proper moral direction.

With us as parents and as Christians it rests to give our children right direction. They are to be carefully, wisely, tenderly guided into paths of Christlike ministry. We are under sacred covenant with God to rear our children for His service. To surround them with such influences as shall lead them to choose a life of service, and to give them the training needed, is our first duty.

Parents and Christians hold a sacred duty to guide children into paths of Christlike ministry. It outlines parental duty regarding moral and spiritual training.

“God so loved, ... that He gave,” “gave His only-begotten Son,” that we should not perish, but have everlasting life. “Christ ... hath loved us, and hath given Himself for us.” If we love we shall give. “Not to be ministered unto, but to minister” is the great lesson which we are to learn and to teach. John 3:16 ; Ephesians 5:2 ; Matthew 20:28 .

Divine love exemplified in Christ calls believers to a life of ministering to others. It relies entirely on scriptural quotations to establish a core spiritual principle.

Let the youth be impressed with the thought that they are not their own. They belong to Christ. They are the purchase of His blood, the claim of His love. They live because He keeps them by His power. Their time, their strength, their capabilities are His, to be developed, to be trained, to be used for Him.

Youth belong to Christ by creation and redemption, and their time, strength, and capabilities should be developed and used for Him. The passage discusses spiritual ownership, divine redemption, and consecration of life and capabilities to Christ.