Christians are pressured everyday by society’s standards. We are sometimes blinded by the appealing attractions of the world. These appeals come through our music, our peers, or just the trends of what’s happening now. Young people especially, have these battles daily. We want to be cool so we dress like Nicki Minaj, want to be, “a playa” so we disrespect women like Lil Wayne, or we want to make money, so we hustle the wrong way like Rick Ross or should I say William Leonard Roberts II. Placing ourselves in the midst of these distractions can hinder our growth as Christians. We see certain celebrities as role models, so we try to gain acceptance as we attempt to model their lifestyles. This is not the path we need to take. We should follow Jesus and what he says is right. Twitter is a great source of learning the latest trends, but Jesus is the only source to gain everlasting life. No, following Jesus may not make you hip in the world’s eyes, but you are considered Royalty by God.

We are losing our youth to drugs, gang violence, and sexual immorality. It’s time to reach out and make a difference in their lives. They need to be taught or reminded that Jesus is love and He loves when the world hates. According to John 2:17, “The world and its desires pass away, but the man who does the will of God lives forever.” Materialistic desires run empty, our friends will betray us, and society may not accept us. But one thing is for certain, Jesus says he will never leave us, nor forsake us. It is very disappointing to hear about another young person like myself, that’s been murdered, or in trouble with the law. These circumstances do not have to continue. We need to go out into our communities and spread The Truth. There is no time for us to be scary Christians. Paul said it best, “The Lord did not give us a spirit of fear, but of power, of love, and self-control” (2 Timothy 1:7). He will move through us and equip us with the armor we need to be a witness for Him. When we walk in his footsteps, we will be making a positive impact on a person’s life. We will be witnesses and more souls will be saved. Now, I know we’re not perfect and the road will not be easy, but Jesus will help us to endure this journey.

Young people will learn that a life like Jesus can be fun. They will learn that you don’t have to be drunk or high to attend Jesus’ party. Mistakes will be made, but lessons can be learned. The great thing about following Jesus is that our sins will be forgiven and moved far from us. Psalm 103:1 states, “As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.” I have been out and experienced some of the pleasures of the world, but they don’t stand a chance to the joy and peace I have found in Jesus Christ. This is a movement, so let’s move together, to the next level!!