Cling to the Word

As I have been doing my student teaching, I have been pleasantly surprised to see students incorporate Scripture into their work. They will use Bible verses in a speech or a slideshow to communicate their faith and share how it teaches and inspires them. This is a wonderful thing, and I am delighted to see that they not only hear the Word but understand how it applies to our lives. 

If I had one piece of advice to encourage these young Christians with, it would be this: cling to the Word. It has warmed my heart to see them use God’s Word in their work, and nothing would bring me more joy than to know that these young men and women are holding onto the Bible, letting it direct their paths. 

Cling to the Word, young girl, when you believe that you aren’t beautiful, that you fall short compared to other girls, or that your value is in your appearance. Cling to the words of David in Psalm 139 when he wrote, “For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well” (v. 13-14). Let God’s Word inform you that your worth is not found in how you look but in that you were created by a God who loves you and wants you to know Him. Cling to the Word. 

Cling to the Word, young boy, when you are tempted to give in to temporary lusts and pleasures. The world offers many alluring images, but cling to the truth that these sinful acts will leave you even more empty. Make it your mission to “flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart” (2 Timothy 2:22). Don’t give in to these temptations, for they never deliver what they promise. Instead, flee these youthful desires and instead run towards the Lord. He warns us of the danger of these actions and teaches us a better way instead. Cling to the Word. 

Cling to the Word, young person, when you are discouraged and downtrodden. Maybe it’s your parents or the other kids at school, but you feel stupid, like you are unloved, and wonder if you even have a place in this world. Let me assure you, young person, you are loved and you are valued. You may not receive this care or compassion from your family or friends, but God loves you. He loves you so much “that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16). God gave up His Son, He came to earth, so that if you believe in Him, He will make you His child. I want to assure you that you could not be more loved than you are. You have value, worth, and a God who wants to save you and give you life. Never let yourself believe anything different. Cling to the Word. 

Whoever you are reading this, cling to the Word. In a world full of lies, soak in the truth of the Bible. Don’t believe what others, the enemy, or even you think. Instead, cling to the Word — and don’t ever let go.