Empowering Youth: Modern Challenges and Solutions
Written by Obwoge Joseph on October 16, 2023
It is a widely acknowledged sentiment that the youth of today will be the ones shaping our society in the future. Various programs and initiatives have been put in place with the aim of empowering the younger generation, and the church is no exception to this endeavor. Virtually every church has established programs aimed at nurturing and guiding the youth on their spiritual journey.
However, it is crucial to ask whether these youth programs are effective in addressing the myriad of challenges facing young people today. We cannot overlook the disconcerting fact that a significant number of youth still find themselves entangled in vices. High rates of sexual immorality, drug addiction, the formation of youth gangs, and a troubling increase in cases of youth suicide all point to a complex problem. One of the most disheartening aspects of this situation is that these issues are not exclusive to the secular world but are, to some extent, observed even within the church community.
Paradoxically, in the confines of church services, one might perceive these youths as virtuous and angelic. However, their true conduct beyond the church walls often paints a different picture – one rife with questionable behavior. So, why is there such a disconnect between their actions within and outside of the church?
One factor contributing to this paradox may be the influence of elders within the church community. Unfortunately, some older individuals in the church may exhibit behaviors and moral conduct that negatively affect the younger generation. Additionally, the youth are not always adequately taught about moral values and ethics in their Christian homes. They are often instructed to be Christians when within the church but are not provided with the guidance they need to navigate the ethical challenges of the secular world. This duality can lead to a disconcerting divide in their behavior and moral principles.
It is important to emphasize that the intent here is not to lay blame squarely on the church, as many external societal factors play a role in shaping youth behavior. Nonetheless, the church can play a pivotal role in helping to address these modern challenges.
For the church to be effective in aiding the youth, it must first seek to understand the unique experiences and difficulties that the younger generation faces in today’s rapidly evolving world. The issues that impacted youth in the 20th century differ from those in the present day. Technological advancements, shifts in lifestyle, and other factors have transformed the landscape. However, it is critical to recognize that the essence of right and wrong remains constant. The environment surrounding young people may have shifted, influencing their perceptions and potentially leading them to believe that some actions are less immoral at this age compared to the past.
To combat this, the church needs to find innovative ways to make religion more relatable to the youth. When faced with challenges, young individuals tend to seek solace and coping mechanisms. In many instances, this leads them down the path of addiction and substance abuse. By making religion and faith a more accessible and applicable resource in their lives, the church can offer a beacon of hope and support for the youth, steering them away from destructive behaviors and towards a brighter future.
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