Youthful Examples


Ginny Lallance


1 Timothy 4:12 – “Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.” (KJV)


This scripture brings young people to my mind. In the margin of my Bible, I have names of Christian youth who have taken that verse and “run with it,” so to speak. One name written there is the focus of my article. She is 13-year-old Jenny Phillips. What a delightful young lady!


This girl has inspired me repeatedly. She never hesitates when asked to be of service to her Lord. As she attends our ladies' Bible class on a Tuesday evening, the prayers she offers are so sincere, and Jenny is an active participant, expressing her thoughts and comments regarding our lessons. Many times, I have heard her mention talking with school classmates about the Bible and various subjects of a spiritual nature. Jenny is one to invite friends to services and although some might not accept her invitation, that does not stop her from asking others.


Just recently, as the ladies were putting together ideas and plans for a ladies day, Jenny was a part of those preparations. When her name was mentioned as perhaps leading the hymns on Ladies Day, she did not hesitate for a second. For those of you who were there on Ladies Day, you know what a beautiful job she did. Willing to do her part is Jenny’s attitude. If one Scripture describes her, it is Matthew 5:16. “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” (KJV)


This young lady, an 8th grader, is active in her middle school where she is in the band and on the honor roll. Even though those things keep her busy, her real light shines forth as a child of God. It may be at the WV Christian Youth Camp, the youth rally at Pikeville, Kentucky, Vacation Bible School, or her regular church attendance. Jenny knows what her role as a young Christian is and that is to glorify Christ as she lives from day to day.


Jenny is a bright child with a wit that will make you join her in laughter. What a blessing to call her my sister in Christ. I hope our readers can meet Jenny sometime, and, when you do, you will find her friendship a joy to share. I must give credit to her parents Mike and Kim Phillips, who have set high Christian standards for Jenny and her brothers to live up to. They are parents who realize that awesome responsibility of nurturing and guiding their children toward that eternal goal of a home in heaven. We need more parents who will do the same. –Rt. 2, Box 177, Belington, WV 26250. mrmrsl@meer.net


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