If I walk with God, what difference does it make to me as a young man? It does not seem that important to those around me, so what is the big deal?
This is a legitimate question. In essence, counting the cost of doing or not doing something is recommended when considering any path of life. Previous posts have already explained that we are talking about the value of an active relationship as a follower of Christ. As a young man, therefore, does it make a difference? It does according to the Bible and my personal experience. Can you do it yourself? Not without the Holy Spirit. Is it easy and quick? No. But how fast we learn depends on how much we want Him and follow His ways. So, let us discuss some of the effects as a walk with God progresses:
First, your conscience can be clear or not besieged with unclean thoughts. It can be marked with peace rather than turmoil. Second, relationships become more straightforward, because they are marked with honesty and truthfulness that comes out of a relationship with the Lord. Where they are not truthful and full of drama, you can recognize a problem and can talk about it, if there is opportunity. Third, you can be free and empowered by the Spirit to enjoy true friendships with young ladies, treating them as sisters in Christ (1 Timothy 5:2). Fourth, relationships with anyone can be empowered to be more upright in speech and action. Fifth, the shift of the center of the world around you to God can open creativity, observation skills, and healthy work skills that are better than you had before.
With Christ, you can better avoid danger or ungodly circumstances, because He helps you recognize them and take action to either avoid them or actively oppose them with gentleness and respect.
When it comes to media that typically saturates a young person’s life, the Holy Spirit can help you recognize what is not worth watching or is actually harmful for your soul.
In general, true attitudes of thankfulness can develop, because you recognize that God is in you and cares for you When that takes hold, you become thankful to others, and able to love others effectively.
Last, knowing and walking with Him means you sleep better. Peace within helps rest.
Put together, all these things make you the man God intended, which will increasingly be in contrast to the world’s pattern of self-seeking. Ultimately, it will affect your decisions and behavior toward a good choice for a wife and path to being a better husband.
Some Handy Scriptures:
Proverbs 119:9 says, “How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to your word.” (ESV)
1 Timothy 2:22 says, “So flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart.” (ESV)
Titus 2:6 says, “Show yourself in all respects to be a model of good works…” (ESV)
Psalm 119:37 says, “Turn my eyes from looking at worthless things; and give me life in your ways.” (ESV)
